Council clamps down on foul behaviour

New campaign to combat dog mess on the streets

Irresponsible dog-owners who allow their pets to foul Hounslow’s parks and pavements are to be targeted under tougher measures being introduced by Hounslow Council.

As part of a year-long campaign, animal warden patrols will be stepped-up, focusing on hot spots across the borough including local streets, parks and housing estates.

New signage warning dog-walkers about the increased patrols is also being installed, and the wardens are providing leaflets about responsible dog ownership.

Principal Animal Control Officer, Tony Bull, said: "Dog mess is nasty - no one wants to come across it on the streets, or for children to skid through it as they play football in the park.

"It’s a major concern for residents, and there is also a public health and disease risk, so dog-owners should be more considerate. There’s really no excuse because it’s not hard to carry a plastic bag and take it home, and there are 49 dog mess bins in the borough’s parks."

Last year, the Council received 171 complaints about dog-fouling. Fines of up to £1000 are applicable if owners do not clean up after their dogs in public places.

Dogs' faeces can cause problems to users of parks, play areas and sports grounds and can carry numerous causes of diseases, the main disease being Toxocariasis, which can ultimately lead to blindness and, in some cases, even death.

May 21, 2004