'Dogwatch'

Dog fouling is a major concern to many people in our village and is more than just an annoying chore; it can pose a serious health risk.

Here's why. Anyone, but particularly children playing near to the ground, can pick up the parasites that are transmitted by dog waste. They have a greater risk of getting the diseases caused by the faeces because they are constantly in contact with the soil on the ground. Whether it's playing ball games or just digging up the dirt, they come in contact with it and afterwards they tend to put their fingers in their mouths or rub their eyes.
Parasitic infections can make humans extremely sick, possible symptoms of infections range from aches, dizziness and nausea, to asthma and pneumonia. Children in particular can contract a condition that can cause an inflammatory reaction and could, in extreme cases cause blindness.

You should note that even if you have your own dog wormed it does not mean that you, your children, or grandchildren are not at risk. All dogs walk everywhere that other dogs have been, they sniff and tread in the waste left by irresponsible owners who do not 'poop and scoop' and even though it takes about one year for the dog waste to disintegrate, the parasites can remain in the soil for many years.

Did you know that the young footballers playing on our local park are at risk? The Parish Council has been informed that someone has to clear the pitch of dog faeces before a game can take place, and it takes about an hour to completely clear it. Would you like the job?

Some people in the village have noticed that quite a lot of dog fouling on the streets seems to take place during late evenings or at night, is this because you think if you're not seen then it's OK to not clear up after your dog?

Please also remember that new dog control orders have come into force across the District of Blaby and from the 31st December 2008 it is an offence if anyone in charge of a dog, whether it belongs to them or not, fails to remove dog faeces should it foul in any public area within the District of Blaby. This includes parks, footpaths and also private land where the public are permitted access. Offenders will be offered the opportunity to accept a Fixed Penalty Notice and pay a fine to discharge liability for the offence. If that person refuses the Notice or accepts but fails to pay the fine they could face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

We have a dog warden who would be delighted to hear from anyone who sees an owner not acting responsibly by not clearing up after their dog, she is happy for the telephone call to be anonymous. Tel. 0116 2727515. Come on all you dog owners, be aware and keep our village clean and healthy.

(Article originally published in 'The Kirby Comment', April 2009.)