Animal Fouling

Each day dogs produce vast amounts of excrement. Much of this is left on footpaths and playing fields, at best can cover shoes and clothes, and at worst can lead to blindness due to an infection called 'Toxocara canis'.

For information email: directservices@northwilts.gov.uk

Council's can now designate land under The Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996. The designated land includes roads, footpaths, school playing fields, sports fields and parks. It is an offence for a dog owner not to clean up after their dog in these areas. Failure to comply can result in a prosecution and fine up to £1000. It is no defence to claim ignorance of the dog's actions.

Solutions

If you have a garden encourage the dog to 'go' there. You can then bury the mess or alternatively clean it up and bin it.
If you walk your dog always carry the means to clear up after your dog. A simple plastic bag will do the trick or obtain poop scoops from a local pet shop. Remember to take a bag or poop scoop, as you would remember a lead.
Every time your dog fouls "bag it and bin it". Take the poop scoop home and dispose of it there. Remember Rain does not wash the problem away.
Never let your dog out alone to "go to the loo".
It is dog owner’s duty to clean up after their dog. There are no excuses, fouling is unacceptable and a serious health hazard to children.
Contact with canine excrement can lead to blindness due to an infection called 'Toxocara canis'.

To report a 'doggy bin' that requires emptying, please follow on the link below:

Report a 'doggy bin' that needs to be emptied

(Choose the main category 'Rubbish, Waste & Recycling' and the sub-category 'Animal - fouling' and complete the on-line form).