Comhairle Launches Dog Fouling Campaign

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is launching a major education and information campaign aimed at reducing irresponsible dog ownership and dog fouling in particular. Across the UK, it costs the taxpayer £3m every year to clean up the 140,000 tonnes of dog waste that is left in streets and parks.

New bins for dumping dog waste have been put up in Stornoway, particularly around Stornoway Primary School where dog fouling has been a problem in the past.

The Director of Public Health, Dr. A. M. George said: “I welcome and support this initiative by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to prevent dog fouling in the Western Isles. Apart from fouling being unpleasant to see, it can also be a health hazard for children and adults, especially when dogs have not been well cared for by their owners. Some of these illnesses can be serious so prevention is all important. Remember that when having handled any animals it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water”.

As part of the information campaign, which also has the support of the SSPCA, leaflets are to be distributed throughout the Western Isles.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Chairman of Environmental Services, Cllr. Angus Nicolson, said: “Although most dog owners are responsible about their dogs, there are still some who act in an irresponsible and anti-social manner and allow their dogs to foul in public places. This is totally unacceptable to the rest of the community. It is expensive to clear up, creates a health hazard, particularly for young children and generally spoils the environment for the majority of people. However, I am confident that people will take the message on board that this is anti-social behaviour. If not, enforcement measures will be stepped up and we have already been in discussions with the Northern Constabulary on this matter. The first steps however are education and information. The basic message is - be responsible, don’t put others health at risk - clear up after your dog”.

The anti-fouling initiative has the support of the Western Isles Dog Training Club. Club Chair Donnie Smith said: “In our dog club and as part of the Kennel Club’s ‘Good Citizenship Award’ we emphasise the importance of cleaning up dogs’ mess as a fundamental responsibility of dog ownership.”

The campaign will be backed up by enforcement measures where necessary. Stornoway Police confirm that if there is sufficient evidence, owners of dogs that foul in public places and do not clear up, will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

Last year in the UK, just over 5,000 people were fined for dog fouling. Offenders in Scotland can face a penalty of up to £500.

Ends

Note: There will be a photo opportunity at 12 noon on Saturday 22nd June when the SSPCA Dog Show takes place at Willowglen in the Castle Grounds in Stornoway.

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 01851 706412 (Home)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk