Dog dirt health risk warning

Fri, 19 May 2006

Reckless dog owners in the Lake District are endangering both livestock and human health, according to a National Park ranger.

Lake District National Park Authority ranger Graham Standring said he was increasingly concerned about the issue of dog fouling.

He said, "Out-of-control dogs have not only caused havoc among lambing sheep, but warnings have now gone out about the dangers of fouling and the serious risks to both people and animals .

"Toxicariasis is an infestation of humans, usually children, from worm larvae in dog’s intestine.

"It can cause allergic reactions, asthma and, at its worst, blindness .

"Cattle can catch a parasitic infection from dog excrement, causing them to lose unborn calves.

"Sheep can also suffer serious tapeworm infections and there have been recent local cases of both sheep and cattle being affected.

Graham said, "It is vital dog mess was cleared up on footpaths and from among livestock, and that pets were regularly wormed.

"This is on top of sheep and cattle worrying cases.

"Sheep are particularly vulnerable at lambing time, but other livestock are also prone to problems if disturbed. I’ve even heard of a dog biting a horse .

"Breeding bird populations must also be guarded as many nest on the ground. Both eggs and young soon die without the projection of parent birds," he added.

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