Sandwell Council crackdown on dog owners who won't scoop poop (From Halesowen News)
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Sandwell Council crackdown on dog owners who won't scoop poop
9:32am Tuesday 19th February 2013 in Local
SANDWELL Council wardens have stepped up a crackdown on dog mess and are carrying out patrols across the borough.
The wardens are working with owners and, where necessary, issuing warnings and fines to those not cleaning up after their pets.
Wardens have the power to issue £75 fines for dog fouling, and issued 43 last year.
They are carrying out extra patrols during the winter months, when dog fouling complaints rise.
As part of the current campaign, wardens are also handing out dog mess bags and educational leaflets from the Dog’s Trust.
They are also letting dog walkers know that bagged dog mess can be put in any public bin.
Councillor Ian Jones, the council’s cabinet member for neighbourhood services, said: "Dog fouling is a big concern for Sandwell residents, who keep asking us to do more about it.
"With our wardens and our waste partners Serco, we have stepped up our action on this issue.
“The winter months often see a rise in dog fouling complaints, probably due to the darker mornings and evenings when some people think they can get away with it under the cover of darkness.”
Councillor Jones added: "The vast majority of dog owners are responsible, which is shown by the amount of dog mess - around 70 tonnes a year - we collect from our dog fouling bins.
"But sadly a small number are not, and they are putting people's health at risk, particularly children who play in parks and on grass.
"Apart from the health concerns, dog mess is also a real nuisance, it makes the area look untidy and it unfairly gives all those responsible dog owners a bad name."
People can report dog fouling to the council online at www.sandwell.gov.uk/reportit, by email to contact@sandwell.gov.uk or by calling 0845 359 7501.
To keep up to date with Sandwell’s dog fouling campaign, and to download posters to display in windows or on notice boards visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/dogfouling
