Dog owners in Shildon are being reminded to pick up after their pets.
The reminder comes after a number of complaints from people in the town about dog fouling, which were highlighted at a recent PACT meeting.
Durham County Council is urging people to make sure they pick up after their dogs and keep the community clean.
Ian Hoult, neighbourhood protection manager at Durham County Council, said, “The majority of dog owners are responsible and do pick up after their pets.
“However, there is a minority of people who do not and it is these people who we want to get the message across to.
“We carry out regular education and enforcement campaigns and anyone found not to be doing the right thing could be given a fixed penalty notice.”
Particular hotspots for dog fouling in the town include Dale Road, High Thickley Park Estate and the black path (behind the BR club).
People can sign up to the Green Dog Walkers scheme, which is where dog owners pledge to always pick up after their pets and also to carry extra dog waste bags in case someone else hasn’t got one.
To sign up for the scheme visit www.durham.gov.uk/greendogwalkers.
People can report dog fouling in confidence online, at www.durham.gov.uk/dogfouling or by calling 03000 261 000.
When reporting an incident, try and give as much information as possible, such as:
- Date and time
- Location
- Description of the dog
- Dog owner and (if possible) address.
This information will enable neighbourhood wardens to take the necessary action against the offender. All reports are dealt with in confidence.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
