Food for thought

If you work in the food or catering industry and want to brush up on some key skills, then take a look at our selection of regular workshops and training courses.

Our Environmental Health team offers short courses and one-day workshops on food safety subjects and on occasion offer specialised workshops for food business operators.

We frequently run workshops in the correct use of the Safer Food Better Business (SFBB) packs and also run an accredited Level 2 Award in Food Safety training delivered from our Civic Offices in Borehamwood or in-house for businesses with a minimum of 10 candidates.

To find out more go to our website hertsmere.gov.uk/foodsafetytraining or email us at ehtraining@hertsmere.gov.uk

Animal Warden Annabel Cozzolino

Our Animal Warden, Annabel Cozzolino, joined us in 2022 after many years working with horses. Still with a focus on four-legged friends, Annabel’s role now is largely around dog protection and safety.

QTell us about your role as an Animal Warden.

AIn any one day I might be collecting strays, checking their microchip details and either returning them to their owners or rehoming them through a charity. I also work with the police to share information about dangerous dog cases and liaise with other departments, like Licensing, to make sure all dog breeding establishments are complying with the law and good practice.

QWhat are the main things that you’re working on at the moment?

AIt’s the law to have all dogs microchipped, but sadly many owners still don’t get this sorted. We’re working hard on remedying this and raising awareness of why it’s so important to do this.

Dog fouling is a persistent problem and dog owners need to be aware of the health risks this brings, as well as being unsightly and unpleasant. We put up clear signage at key locations reminding residents that everyone has a part to play in making Hertsmere a clean and safe place to live.

QWhat are your main messages to our residents?

AMy number one message would be to check your dog’s microchip and make sure the details are correct –and always carry a dog poo bag whilst out and about in the borough!

QFinally, tell us about the lovely Labrador in the photo!

AThat’s Freddie, who was actually a Hertsmere stray collected when he was a 10-week-old puppy by my predecessor in this role eight years ago! My mum fostered him at the time so he didn’t have to go into kennels and he’s since become a permanent member of the family. He was thrilled and proud to be asked to pose for Hertsmere News!

For info on stray dogs visit hertsmere.gov.uk/straydogs