Extension proposed for dog fouling order

The existing Pubic Space Protection Order (PSPO) which has been in place since 2018 replaced all dog control legislation in the borough, and included a new restriction in regard to dogs in children’s fenced off play areas.

This latest consultation asks residents if they are happy for the order to remain in place for a further three years, up to March 2024.

Dog faeces pose significant health risks, and irresponsible dog owners leave other people vulnerable to diseases such as toxocariasis, an infection caused by roundworm parasites which can cause blindness. Dog faeces can also carry E. coli and hepatitis.

Dogs on children's playgrounds represent a major health and injury hazard, through exposure to the faeces themselves, or through contact with contaminated soil or sand. Additionally, there are over 7,000 admissions to hospital for dog bites and attacks annually in the UK with under 10s most likely to be admitted.

The council receives regular complaints in relation to dog fouling and last year issued 33 fixed penalty notices. In order to issue a notice, an authorised officer must see the owner allowing their dog to foul and not clearing away afterwards for an offence to occur. The current fixed penalty notice under the PSPO stands at £100 and under the proposed re-authorisation of the PSPO, the penalty will remain at this level. Failure to pay can incur costs of up to £2500

Cllr Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental services said:

Dog fouling of public spaces is absolutely unacceptable, especially when it puts the health of others, especially children at risk.

The existing PSPO has already given us further enforcement powers to crack down on those irresponsible owners, who allow their dogs to foul our pavements, green spaces and play areas without cleaning up after them. The majority of dog owners act responsibly but there are those who spoil it for the rest and after all is said our four legged friends cannot clean up after themselves and that is part of our responsibility as dog owners. We want to make sure residents are still happy with this approach which is why we need them to take a minute to answer the four simple questions in our survey.

PSPOs are intended to address activities carried out in public spaces which have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality. The new PSPO would last for a maximum period of 3 years and could then be renewed for a further 3 year period.

To participate in the consultation visit www.dudley.gov.uk https://online.dudley.gov.uk/surveys/dogfoulingsurvey2020/dog_fouling_survey.htm

To report incidents of dog fouling contact Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345 or via twitter @DCPlus