'Bag it and bin it' warning to Oldham dog owners

The last 12 months have been hard for everyone and so it’s no surprise some people have invited new family members into their homes.

Since Coronavirus restrictions were introduced last year a lot of Oldham residents have bought dogs to accompany them on their daily walks.

Unfortunately, this has meant an increase in the amount of dog dirt that can be seen across the borough.

Not only is it unsightly, but it is also a health hazard.

The vast majority of owners are responsible and clean up after their pets, but sadly a small minority don’t.

Councillor Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Culture, said: “I think I speak for most councillors when I say over the last year, we have received a lot more complaints from residents and businesses about dog dirt.

“We get asked what we are doing about it and the simple answer is we will take action if we are given the evidence.

“People need to appreciate our officers have been extremely busy working on Coronavirus related issues and can’t be everywhere at once – they shouldn’t have to pick up other people’s waste.

“We have to keep reminding people to clean up after their dogs because a small number of people simply aren’t bothered or if someone else treads in what they should have picked up. 

“If everyone took waste bags out with them, cleaned up and then disposed of it properly there wouldn’t be an issue.

"And when we say disposed of it properly, we don’t mean leaving the bag on a tree – take it home with you.

“If you’re not prepared to pick up your dog’s poo, then should you really have one?”

It's an offence not to clean up after your dog fouls and you can be fined up to £1,000.

If you can’t find a bin to dispose of the waste be responsible and put it in your grey bin at home then wash your hands.

If you witness this offence, you can report it via: www.oldham.gov.uk/dogfouling

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