Published on 11th August 2014

Dog fouling sign in Pittville park

Dog action days at Springfields Park, Springbank and at Clyde Crescent in Whaddon have helped dog owners learn more about responsible dog ownership.

The action days were set up following several complaints received by the council in relation to dog fouling and dogs causing a problem in these areas.

The action day at Springfields Park on 2 July started at 6am and concluded at 8pm. Within this time the community protection team spoke to over 100 people about handling dogs in the park and also gave out free poop scoops and further information about how to be a responsible dog owner. The team micro chipped 44 dogs, five cats and updated six changes of ownership/address. During the day, one dog was found unattended but the owner was quickly on the scene and explained that the dog had escaped from the garden.

On 29 July, the community protection team also visited Clyde Crescent in conjunction with Cheltenham Borough Homes’ Fido Fiesta from 6am until 4pm during which time all dog owners that came in to the park were spoken to and advised on cleaning up after their dogs. 16 dogs were micro chipped for free. This service was offered to dog owners, as from 6 April 2016 compulsory micrcohipping becomes the law across the country.

Clive Evans, community protection officer said: “The days were a great success for us as we were able to communicate with many dog walkers who make use of the parks. The parks have had cases of dog related problems and fouling in the past, so this exercise was to give out as much information as possible to dog walkers. We could also reassure locals that we are doing everything we can to make sure the open space can be enjoyed by all.”

Councillor Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety added: “It’s important that community areas can be enjoyed by all. The community protection team have done a fantastic job in making people aware of the negative impact dog fouling has to parks and open spaces.”

ENDS


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