Calendar of meetings (7pm start):

Tuesday 28 February 2012

Tuesday 15 May 2012

Tuesday 17 July 2012

Zero tolerance on dog mess

Dog owners are being warned to bag and bin their dog’s mess or face a £75 on the spot fine.

“We know that the majority of dog owners are responsible and clear up after their pets. However, those who don’t, need to be warned that we will not tolerate dog mess,” said Cllr Heather Caird, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Health at Chichester District Council.

“I am a dog owner myself, and part of that responsibility is to make sure I clean up after my dogs. Leaving dog mess around is a risk to the health of both children and adults besides being very unpleasant - and that is just not acceptable.”

Dog fouling is a major concern to the public and generates many complaints. It can also be linked to health risks including 'toxocara canis'.

Roundworm eggs are found in dog mess, which can easily be picked up by young children. This causes stomach upsets, sore throats, asthma and in rare cases blindness. The eggs can remain active in the soil for many years, long after the dog mess has weathered away.

The council is encouraging residents to inform it if:

• they have witnessed people leaving dog mess and they know who they are. Any information is protected under the Data Protection Act.


• they are aware of a hotspot where people consistently offend. We need information we can act on, such as times offenders walk, a description of them, their dog or a vehicle. Our dog wardens will then target this area.   

Residents should call 01243 534604 to report problems with dog mess. The council’s Customer Care Centre also sells biodegradable dog bags. These can be purchased for £1.70 for 30 bags.

Ends

For further information, please contact Sarah Parker,

                                                   PR Manager, on 01243 534537

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