Dog owners in the North Somerset region are being reminded of the necessity of picking up after their pets when they foul in a public place.
More than 30 members of North Somerset Council’s staff have been trained to issue penalty notices if they catch pet owners failing to clear up any mess left by their animal while out walking.
Those found guilty can be fined £75 on the spot or up to £1,000 if prosecuted, while responsible owners are being encouraged to report anyone they see flouting the rules.
Moreover, town and parish councils and schools have been asked to display campaign posters warning people they risk facing prosecution if they do not bag mess.
Peter Bryant, executive member with responsibility for environmental protection at North Somerset Council, said: “Not only does dog’s mess pose a health hazard, but it is a disgusting antisocial practice that costs the taxpayer money to clear up.”
Last week, a report from the Nottingham Post revealed that about 200 tonnes of dog mess is left in public areas across Nottingham each year, costing around £234,000 to clean up.