East Cambridgeshire District Council

Residents in Littleport are saying enough is enough to dog owners who let their animals foul their town without clearing it up and local Councils are doing their bit to help.

The issue of dog fouling is a frequently raised in Neighbourhood Panel meetings and is rated as serious anti social behaviour creating real public health concerns.

In Littleport, concerned residents are appealing to dog walkers to clear up after their animals so they and their children can avoid the health risks associated with dog mess.

Dog waste contains a number of bacteria including Campylobacter and Salmonella as well as infections caused by the roundworm Toxocara canis.

The fine for failing to pick up dog mess is a £50 fixed penalty, which can rise to £1,000 for persistent offenders.

Dave White, Waste Strategy Team Leader at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “Dog fouling is socially unacceptable which is why we need to tackle it especially now.  With over 200 dog bins around the district there is little excuse for anyone not to pick up their dog’s waste. Bagged dog waste can also be deposited in litter bins where there is no dog bin available. It is one of the most obvious examples of anti social behaviour that can blight our lives and damage people’s health.

“In Littleport, we are working together with local residents who feel that their lives are blighted by the actions of others. In conjunction with local people we will be stepping up patrols. We are also encouraging anyone who sees dog walkers not clearing up after their pets to get in touch with us, and provide details of the person responsible & where and when the fouling is happening.”

To report problems with dog fouling or provide details of offenders please call on 01353 665555 or visit www.eastcambs.gov.uk.