Dog owners asked to keep public spaces free of fouling

 

Published 22 December 2011

 

Dog walkers have been encouraged to clean up after their pets at an event in a Vale of Glamorgan park.

 

(L to R) Senior Enforcement Officer, Denny White; cabinet member for community safety, Coun Paul Church; Enforcement Officer, Stephen Abdulla; and cabinet member for visible services, Geoffrey Cox.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s enforcement team have been talking to users of Alexandra Park in Penarth, as well as handing out blue dog fouling bags.

 

Councillor Sophie Williams, who represents St Augustine’s Ward in Penarth said: "I’ve had a number of complaints of dog fouling on pavements in the area.

 

"It’s not just unpleasant; it poses risks to young children.

 

"The majority of dog owners are very responsible; it is a few who are putting others at risk.

 

"As a dog owner myself I know that cleaning up after my dog is part of the commitment I took on when I got her."

 

Under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996, owners who fail to clean up after their dogs could face a fine of up to £1,000.

 

Cabinet Member for visible and building services, Councillor Geoffrey Cox, said: "Dog owners are legally bound to prevent their dogs fouling in public. Hopefully, the presence of our enforcement team has acted to remind those who ignore this reminder."

 

Senior enforcement officer Denny White, who organised the event, said: "If you are a dog owner, you must clean up after your dog.

 

"Please remember to take a couple of bags before you go out on your daily walk. Once you’ve scooped the poop, simply tie the bag and place it in any council bin.

 

"We run these events often and like to speak to the public to highlight our work and gently remind people that picking up after your dog (or if you are walking someone else’s dog), is your responsibility."

 

For information email: visible@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk or telephone: 01446 700111.