It is no defence to claim ignorance of the dog’s action

The problem of dog mess in the parish has been highlighted to the Parish Council on several occasions. Problems have been reported on footpaths throughout the parish and especially on pavements within the centre of the village.

Dog mess is a nuisance, at the least it can cover shoes and clothes and at worst contact with canine excrement can lead to blindness due to a worm carried by dogs called "Toxocara Canis".

Toxocara canis is a roundworm found in dogs. Roundworm eggs are found in dog mess, which can easily be picked up by young children. This causes stomach upsets, sore throats, asthma and in rare cases blindness. The eggs can remain active in the soil for many years, long after the dog mess has weathered away.

Dog owners please clean up after your dog in public places — If your dog fouls in a public place, you must clean up the mess under the Dog Act 1996. Always carry a poop scoop or a bag to carry the mess to a dog bin. There are several provided by the parish council around the village. If there isn't a dog mess bin on your route, take it home and dispose of it there.

Failure to clean up after your dog can mean anything from the issue of a fixed penalty ticket of £50 to prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

If you see this offence happening REPORT IT. You can report dog fouling that isn't cleaned up to your local council, Call 0845 606 6067 or email customerservices@csduk.com. If possible, give details such as the name and address of the offender or, if not, a good description of them and their dog.

We can all help to make this disgusting problem better.

Rattlesden Parish Council