Safer Ryedale blitz on dog fouling (From Gazette & Herald)

Safer Ryedale blitz on dog fouling

11:38am Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News

RESIDENTS are being urged to support a campaign to encourage dog owners to pick up after their pet.

Safer Ryedale is working to tackle dog fouling in response to a recent survey completed by 602 residents which identified that 42 per cent were concerned about dog fouling.

Patrols will be stepped up in hotspot areas and £50 fines will be issued to irresponsible dog owners, while responsible owners will be rewarded with a Caught Doing Right card to enter a free prize draw.

The campaign aims to not only enforce the law, but to also change behaviour and encourage dog owners to bag and bin their dog’s waste in any litter bin.

Inspector Andy Everitt, of Ryedale Police, said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour in Ryedale is not just about groups of youths gathering in public places, people littering, causing damage, drink related rowdiness in our town centres or the anti-social use of motor vehicles.

“Dog fouling is also an anti-social act that has an impact on the quality of people’s lives.”

Insp Everitt added: “Many dog owners in Ryedale are extremely diligent in picking up their dog mess. The clear community message is that it is time for all dog owners to step up to the mark.

“We need assistance from the community to identify owners who persistently allow their dogs to foul on our streets.”

Dog fouling offences should be reported to Ryedale District Council on 01653 600666 extension 208, or email dogwarden@ryedale.gov.uk