Council closes in on irresponsible dog owners

IRRESPONSIBLE dog owners are counting the cost after failing to pay fixed-penalty notices.

The council successfully prosecuted two men in separate cases at Oldham Magistrates’ Court.

The local authority issues fines to any dog owner caught in the act of leaving their pet’s mess on local streets, parks and open spaces.

There is an initial £80 fine which is reduced to £50 if it is paid within 10 days. Anyone who fails to pay the fine is then prosecuted.

Steven Hubbard, of Raleigh Close, Coldhurst, was seen allowing his dog to foul and failing to clean it up on April 30.

He was found guilty in his absence of failing to comply with the borough’s dog fouling order and fined £175. He was also ordered to pay £300 costs with a £15 victim surcharge. Stephen Wren, of Birch Hall Close, Holts, also failed to attend court and was fined in his absence.

His dog was seen leaving his house and fouling on a grass verge on June 5. He was fined £175 plus £300 costs with a £15 victim surcharge.

Councillor Rod Blyth, Cabinet member for community safety and public protection, said: “Dog fouling is anti-social behaviour and also poses a serious health hazard.

“Dog waste can be disposed of in any general litter bin so there really is no excuse for denying the general public of their right to live in a clean and safe environment.

“I hope these cases again send out a strong message that we will not hesitate to prosecute any owners who are caught failing to clean up after their dogs.”