Wrexham Council announces support for new campaign to tackle dog fouling

Wrexham Council has announced its support for a new national campaign to tackle dog fouling by urging dog owners to “Leave Only Pawprints” and pick up after their pets.

Although an estimated nine out of ten dog owners pick up after their pets, dog poo remains a persistent issue in communities across the country.

Keep Wales Tidy’s campaign aims to raise awareness of the health risks associated with dog poo; not just for humans but also for livestock and other pets.

Dog poo that’s left behind can carry harmful bacteria which can remain in soil long after it has decomposed.

The nationwide campaign is being run as part of Caru Cymru (a Welsh phrase meaning ‘Love Wales’) – an inclusive movement led by Keep Wales Tidy and local authorities to inspire people to take action and care for the environment.

Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport, said, “Dog fouling is something we all hate to see and so it’s important we support this campaign and encourage all pet owners to pick up after their dog has fouled.

“There’s no excuse for it and it could land you with a fine so please support this campaign and leave only pawprints when you exercise your dog.”

Keep Wales Tidy Chief Executive Lesley Jones said: “We’re excited to be launching this important campaign with our local authority partners. As a nation of dog lovers, we should all be aware that dog poo isn’t just an unpleasant mess, it can be dangerous.

“We’re urging the small minority of irresponsible dog owners to do the right thing. By not picking up after your dog, you could be putting people, livestock, and our beloved pets at risk. Please bag it, bin it and leave only pawprints when you’re out and about.”

To join the campaign and find out more visit Keep Wales Tidy’s website www.keepwalestidy.cymru/caru-cymru

Caru Cymru has received funding through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.