Dog owners urged to clear up after their pets

20th July 2012

Ask any dog owner and they're sure to be able to list you all the pet care jobs they thoroughly enjoy - from feeding their pooch their premium dog food to taking them for long walks in the countryside.

But one task unlikely to feature high on the list is clearing up dog mess.

However, it may not exactly be the most glamorous job in the world, but cleaning up after your dog a key component of responsible pet ownership and is one that should never be neglected.

Not only is dog fouling unhygienic and unsightly, but it can potentially cause toxocariasis in humans, an infection that can result in eye disorders, nausea, asthma and, in some cases, seizures or fits.

"Everyone can agree that dog mess is unpleasant and should not be left lying around," says Kennel Club communications director Caroline Kisko.

"Part of being a responsible dog owner is to clean up after your dog, and unfortunately the irresponsible minority can ruin things for the responsible majority. Failing to clean up after your dog can also land you with a considerable fine."

According to Keep Britain Tidy, if a dog owner fails to clean up after their pooch they can be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice, or if the case goes to court a fine of up to £1,000.

However, there's really no reason why owners should even need to risk a fine, as by ensuring you always keep an eye on your pup and carry waste bags wherever you go, it is easy to clear up after your dog and keep the area clean and pleasant for everyone.

"The best way to ensure you are always able to clean up after your pet is to keep dog waste bags on you whenever you walk the dog," adds Caroline.

"Dog waste bags are perfect tools to pick up and bin dog waste quickly and easily.  You should dispose of them in a dog waste bin, or if one is not available, a regular litter bin."