SAFER Ryedale is continuing the fight against dog fouling by awarding its third prize in the Caught Doing Right scheme.

Annie Brannan, from Malton, was entered into a free prize draw after she was seen picking up after her dog by Brian Dunn, Ryedale District Council’s dog warden.

“The majority of dog owners are responsible dog owners and are fed up of being blamed for the actions of a few irresponsible owners,” said Brian.

“This campaign acknowledges the actions of all responsible owners in keeping their community clean from dog dirt.”

Following consultation with local people, Safer Ryedale is tackling the problem of dog fouling.

Patrols will be stepped up in hotspot areas and £50 fines will be issued to irresponsible dog owners in a bid to reduce the amount of dog waste.

The campaign aims to not only enforce the law, but also change behaviour and encourage dog owners to bag and bin their dog’s waste in any litter bin in the area. Many town and parish councils have dog waste bins and some also have bag dispensers near the waste bins.

Inspector Andy Everitt, of Ryedale Police, said this proactive work shows communities their persistence to solving the dog fouling complaints in Ryedale and they would continue to help raise awareness of this increasing problem.

Dog fouling offences can be reported to Ryedale District Council by phoning 01653 600666 ext 208 or emailing dogwarden@ryedale.gov.uk