Dog-poop vigilantes prowl Harrogate as cold weather leaves its mark on the streets

A COUNCIL in North Yorkshire says it has noticed a huge increase in dog fouling during the recent cold weather and has urged dog owners to ensure they pick up after their pets if they make a mess in public places.

Harrogate Borough Council has issued 10 people with fines of 50 so far this year, and said there has been a increase in complaints over the issue after the snowy weather.

It said mess was being left on footpaths and in children's play areas, causing a health risk to members of the public.

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Harrogate Borough Council's Dog Control Officers have warned that they will be increasing patrols in areas where the public have concerns in a bid to catch the culprits.

Bilton and Knaresborough have been identified as having significant problems with irresponsible dog owners.

Councillor Les Ellington said: "Dog fouling is an anti-social act committed by a minority of irresponsible dog owners that will not be tolerated. There is no excuse not to pick up after your dog has fouled as dog fouling can be disposed of in any dog waste bin, public litter bin or double bagged and put in with your domestic refuse.

"We are seeing more and more people prepared to step in and help us find the culprits. We would encourage more members of the public to contact us to tell us where they see problems. Anyone not picking up after their dog should be aware that we are looking for them.

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"These are probably law-abiding citizens but not picking up after their pet has fouled is an illegal offence."

The council thanked those dog owners who do pick up after their dogs and encouraged them and any other member of the public to contact the Dog Control Officers on 01423 556633 to pass on any information such as names, addresses or a description of the person or dog they walk and the time they allow their dog to foul and not pick up.