Campaign to tackle dog fouling launched (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Campaign to tackle dog fouling launched

5:55pm Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News

DOG owners who fail to clean up after their pets are being targeted in a month long campaign.

Durham County Council civic pride officers and neighbourhood wardens are tackling dog fouling to promote responsible dog ownership.

The scheme began today (Wednesday, February 6) and 15 hotspot areas will be targeted with a mixture of education and enforcement.

The first two weeks of the campaign will focus on education including promoting the Green Dog Walkers scheme.

There will be activities in schools and a golden ticket competition to reward responsible behaviour.

The second two weeks will see increased enforcement patrols in target areas to try to catch those who fail to clean up after their dog.

Free dog microchipping sessions will be available throughout the campaign.

Among the ares to be targeted are St Mary's churchyard, Barnard Castle, the area near Hartside Primary School, Crook, Cockton Hill Recreation Ground, Bishop Auckland, Jubilee Fields and Black Path, Shildon, and Jubilee Park area, Spennymoor.

Details on the sessions can be obtained by logging onto www.nationaldogcampaign.co.uk.

Anyone who can identify dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets should call 0300-026-1000 or visit www.durham.gov.uk/dogfouling.