Dog Fouling
Unfortunately, like many places, Corsenside has the reoccuring problem of dog mess on our streets, lay-bys and green spaces. This is one of the most frequently complained about problems the Parish Council contend with.
There seem to be many misconceptions about dog fouling and because the laws surrounding can vary from place to place we are happy to use this page to provide up to date, local information. We hope parishioners and visitors can share the facts below which show why it is so important to clean up after your pets.
1. Dog owners must clean up after their dogs no matter where in Northumberland they are walked.
Northumberland has passed specific bylaws that clearly state dog mess is to be cleaned up from public places; meaning even if you are away from private homes or on quiet rural lanes the rules still apply. This may differ from the law in other regions.
The effect of the Public Spaces Protection Order is "to make it an offence for a person in charge of a dog which defecates on any land which is open to the air and to which the public are entitled or permitted to have access to (with or without payment) [...] to fail to remove the faeces from the land forthwith."
2. Dog mess is harmful
Perhaps because it is commonly seen we may get the impression that dog poo does no damage. This is untrue.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency places pet waste in the same category as toxic chemicals from motor vehicles or pesticides. Pet waste regualrly contains harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. Coli and parasites such as hookworms, ringworms and tapeworms.
It is especially important to carefully clear mess from areas where children may play but even elsewhere the toxins can easily accumulate into waterways causing problems in bodies of water. For humans affected the resulting symptoms may range from rashes to fever, diarrhea, liver damage, vomiting, blindness or nervous system breakdown.
For other animals the picture is no better, diseases found in dog poo can cause abortions in cattle and death in sheep​, so please pick up from fields even away from footpaths. Unsurprisingly, sickness from one beloved pet can easily spread to another if their mess is not cleaned up. Horses are known to be drawn to the smell of dog mess and there are several cases of horses dying after injesting plastic poo bags that had been discarded within their reach.
Please put your bagged dog waste in a bin.
3. Every incident matters
We are all familiar with the idea that dogs will pee to leave their mark and possibly use that scent to 'claim' their particular patch. The same can be said for dog poo. Once a pile of mess litters a verge other dogs take the sign to do their business there too and the problem quickly grows. In a short space of time the area appears uncared for and no one feels the need to clean up there anymore.
4. It is selfish
Many pet lovers agree dogs are incredibly rewarding companions; keeping them safe and stopping them from harming and inconveniencing others is the minimum that is required in return for their affection. It takes very little effort to carry dog waste bags, use them to clear away the mess and dispose of it in a bin.
Knowingly leaving others to clean up after you and your pets displays a concerning immaturity and arrogance. Consider what type of person you see yourself as and if this is the legacy you wish to leave behind you where you go.
If you have any problems clearing up after your own pets, please contact the parish council who can recommend local dog walking/care professionals who may be able to help you.
5. You can report your concerns
The county council employ animal welfare officers who work hard to, among other things, keep our county free of dog waste. The do prosecute people who allow their pets to foul and the fines can reach up to £1,000. You can report areas that are a problem and they can be cleaned and monitored. NCC staff are also interested to hear of or see any evidence you have of people who fail to clean up after the animals they are with. Details can be found here: Northumberland County Council - Animal welfare & dog control
The Green Dog Walkers Scheme
Residents of Northumberland are invited to pledge to be responsible dog owners and help promote the importance of picking up after your dog. More details can be found on the county council website, including how to recieve free dog waste bags.
https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/Protection/Animals.aspx
