Newton Abbot dog owners reminded to scoop the poop or pay up to £50

Local dog owners are being reminded to pick up after their pets this week as part of Poop Scoop week.

The national event is being supported by the authority, police and the Dogs Trust, who are thanking considerate owners while reminding the irresponsible few that dogs can’t pick up after themselves. 

Each year thousands of complaints are received by local authorities about dog mess littering public footpaths, grass areas and parks, and anyone caught not picking up after their pet risks an on-the-spot fine of up to £50.

Cllr Gordon Hook said: 

“We clean the streets on a very regular basis and see first hand the amount of dog mess that irresponsible owners leave behind. It shouldn’t be up to anyone but the owner to pick up after their dog, and this week we’re reminding them that it could cost them £50 not to scoop the poop.

“It’s worth remembering that bagged dog mess can be taken home and put in your normal bin, so there’s no excuse on the rare occasion that a dog bin is full. In fact, wrapped-up dog waste can also be put into a general litter bin if a dog bin isn’t available – so wherever you walk your dog you have the option to scoop the poop, please do bag it and bin it.”