Dog owners urged to Bag it, Tie it, Bin it
Monday, December 3 2007
Scottish Borders Council’s new campaign to stamp out dog fouling was unveiled today.
The Council is targeting dog owners who do not clean up after their dogs in public places. They are being told to ‘Bag it, Tie it, Bin it’.
New patrols will be enforcing the law across the Scottish Borders, focusing initially on Peebles and Hawick.
The campaign is being fronted by a family of three Border Terriers, one of whom was at today’s launch along with other canine friends and representatives from the Council and partner organisations.
“It is important that dog owners are aware of their responsibilities and clean up their dog’s dirt so that no-one’s health is put at risk,” said Councillor Len Wyse, Executive Member for Environmental Services.
“They can dispose of it in their bin at home or in any public litter bin. Stamping out dog fouling also means everyone will be able to enjoy our public places without worrying about what mess is lurking in their way.”
The Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 means that fixed penalites of £40 can be issued on the spot to people who do not clean up after their dogs.
Dr Andrew Riley, Director of Public Health at NHS Borders, said: “We welcome and support this initiative. Apart from dog fouling being unpleasant to see and on occasion to stand in, it can also be a health hazard. Some of the illnesses it causes can be serious, so prevention is very important. Picking up your dog's dirt should be an everyday habit. But remember that when you have handled any animals, including dogs, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.”
Lothian and Borders Police confirmed that, if there is sufficient evidence, owners of dogs that foul in public places who do not clean it up will face a fixed penalty notice. Alternatively, offenders will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.
To encourage people to clean up after their dogs, the Council is giving away a limited number of free dog waste bags. They can be picked up at Council contact centres and area offices.
People who have a dog fouling problem in their area can call free on 0800 376 1030 or email to report it.
More details about the campaign can be found at www.scotborders.gov.uk/dogfouling
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