‘No such thing as the dog poo fairy’

Dog mess is an emotive issue and one of the most unacceptable and offensive types of litter on our streets and public spaces.

Bradford Council has teamed up with national charity Keep Britain Tidy to remind people that they need to dispose of dog poo bags properly, either in a designated bin or any other rubbish bin.

Research shows that nine out of 10 clean up after their dogs but eight people out of 10 didn’t know that dog poo bags can be disposed of in all rubbish bins, not just designated dog mess bins.

Steve Hartley, Strategic Director of Place for Bradford Council, said: “Picking up your dog poo is only the first stage of disposing of the mess. It needs to go in the bin, rather than throwing it in the trees, behind a bush or in the gutter. Dog poo in plastic bags does not biodegrade so someone needs to deal with it.

Bradford drivers and passengers warned 'don't be a tosser' in new litter campaign

“As there is no Dog Poo Fairy to make it disappear Bradford Council workers are left to pick it up.

“Whether in bags or not, leaving dog fouling is offensive, disgusting and downright dangerous, especially to youngsters who could lose their sight from infection by dog faeces.”

“Please help us to eradicate this problem by bagging your dog’s poo and disposing of the bags in any rubbish bin.”

Bradford Council’s parks attract lots of dog owners and families with young children so to make sure both can continue to enjoy them to the full, walkers are urged to get rid of their dog’s mess responsibly.

When pet owners allow their dogs to foul, the resultant mess can end up on shoes and clothing, wheelchairs, bicycles, prams and toys.

People who allow their dogs to foul could be issued with a £80 fixed penalty notice or prosecuted and fined up to £1,000 with a criminal record.

If you have witnessed a specific incident of dog fouling, can provide details of the date and time it took place, and you know the name and address of the owner and are willing to make a statement, we can issue the owner with an £80 fixed penalty notice.

For more information on how to report dog fouling, please visit our website at www.bradford.gov.uk or telephone 01274 431000.