Community News

DOG FOULING, NO EXCUSE.

Dog mess is the most unacceptable and offensive type of litter on our streets. Keep Britain Tidy research tells us that dog fouling is the issue the public are most concerned about.

Dog fouling is not only deeply unpleasant, it is dangerous. Whilst rare, contact with dog excrement can cause toxocariasis – a nasty infection that can lead to dizziness, nausea, asthma and even blindness or seizures.

It’s no wonder dog fouling is such a problem – there are estimated to be more than 8 million dogs producing more than 1,000 tonnes of mess every day in the UK alone. While most dog owners are caring, responsible individuals, there are still some people who do not clean up after their pets. Anyone who fails to clear up after their dog can be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100. If the case goes to court this could cost the owner or person in charge of the animal up to £1,000. The law states that being unaware a dog has fouled or not having a suitable bag is not a reasonable excuse.

If someone does fail to clean up after their pet, it falls to the council to get rid of it. Normally after being reported due to children or the elderly having slipped in it. Keep Britain Tidy have a new campaign ‘We’re watching you’. This is aimed at reminding people, even at night, you can be seen and we will not put up with it.

It’s important to highlight to dog owners that any bin will do for their pet’s mess. While some councils do provide dedicated dog-fouling bins, any public bin can take the waste.

Please mention “The Arrow” when responding to advertisements