Warning to owners after 'blight' of dog fouling 'poses health risk' in South Shields

Dog fouling is blighting the streets of a South Shields, according to one resident who says the area is regularly littered with poo bags and waste.
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The man, who did not want to be named, said dog fouling in Simonside has become a ‘serious issue,’ with the area around Simonside Metro Station regularly strewn with dog mess and poo bags.

“The area is strewn with dog mess,” he said.

"There are discarded dog poo bags thrown on the pavement outside of the Lord Blyton Primary School, as well as Simonside Metro and in the cemetery yard.

Dog fouling is blighting the streets of Simonside.Dog fouling is blighting the streets of Simonside.
Dog fouling is blighting the streets of Simonside.
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"It's a potential health hazard and has become a serious issue.”

He feels South Tyneside Council should do more to tackle the problem of dog fouling by having council wardens in the area to fine owners who do not pick up after their pet.

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The council said it takes the issue of dog fouling ‘very seriously’ and ‘will always take enforcement action wherever it can.’

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: “We take this issue of dog fouling very seriously.

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"The mess it causes is not only unpleasant, it blights our estates and poses a public health risk.

“While we appreciate that most dog owners are considerate and responsible, there is an irresponsible minority of people who fail to clean up after their dogs.

"This is a criminal offence and we will always take enforcement action wherever we can.

“We continue to urge residents to report incidents to us and remind dog owners that it is wholly unacceptable to discard used plastic dog waste bags in our streets, open spaces or in people’s gardens or yards. These are littering offences.

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“Dog owners should take the bags home to dispose of in their own bins or put them into any of the litter bins provided in public areas.

"With plenty of bins, as well as signage reminding dog owners of their responsibilities, there really is no excuse.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report incidents of dog fouling to the council on: 0191 427 7000 or online at: www.southtyneside.gov.uk

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