DOG mess left on pavements, parks, play areas and paths in Monmouthshire was the target of an action day.

The Give Dog Fouling the Red Card campaign was a partnership between the county council’s environmental heal-

th, waste and street cleaning teams as well as the police and a number of town and community councils. Events were aiming to reduce the amount of dog mess left in public area – one of the most frequently raised environmental issues according to council of-

ficials.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet member for operations, Cllr Bryan Jones said: “We all dislike the sight of dog mess on our streets, and instances of children coming home with it on their shoes or sports kit are infuriating. 

“Action days such as this are a really useful opportunity to raise the profile of this continuing concern and for all of us to make sure we are responsible dog owners.  Quite simply – bag it and bin it.”

Council staff visited Monmouth and were joined by members of community groups in areas identified as dog mess hotspots.  They discussed the problem with local dog walkers, handing out free dog poo bags and leaflets about the campaign, of which Monmouth Town Council is a partner.  An additional dog fouling sign was erected at Rockfield football ground where dog fouling is a real issue.

“The campaign seeks the support of dog owners,” Cllr Jones added, “but the persistent few who continue to act irresponsibly could face a fixed penalty notice of £75.  A person who refuses to pay can expect to be prosecuted in court where the fine can be up to £1,000.” 

Dog owners who do not pick up can be reported to the council via www.

monmouthshire.gov.uk

Residents can use the council’s recently introduced My Monmouthshire app to log problems with dog fouling.