Council appeals for help to catch dog fouling offenders

1st September 2010

The Highland Council's Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross Education and Enforcement officer James Sanderson is appealing to members of the public in Brora, Golspie and Helmsdale to help provide information which will help him identify persistent dog fouling offenders.

Mr Sanderson says a minority of dog walkers are continuously flouting the law by failing to clear up after their dogs.

James said: "I have identified the areas of concern and am going to be targeting them over the next couple of months for additional patrol. Areas like Golf Road in Brora seem to have just two or three dog walkers that still ignore the law by not picking up after their dog. There is no excuse for it as the huge majority of dog walkers are setting a good example. I urge the public to help by letting me know when they see dog walkers not picking up after their dogs. I will issue fixed penalty fines on anyone caught."

During the recent Keep Scotland Beautiful "Poop Scoop" Week, Northern Constabulary and The Highland Council carried out joint patrol work in the area and this helped to identify some of the key times that dog walkers are active.

James added: "I shall now be targeting certain areas in Sutherland in the early morning and late evening to catch people ignoring the law."

The public can help Mr Sanderson by calling the Council Service Centre on 01349 86606 and pass on any information regarding identifying the problem times if they witness this offence. Free dog waste bags can be obtained from Council Service Points.