New crackdown on dog fouling

Dog owners are being reminded that if they fail to clean up after their pet they could be prosecuted and handed a fine of up to 1,000. At the same time, the council is also launching a new scheme to reward responsible dog owners. Coun Cynthia Ransome, Doncaster Council's cabinet member for neighbourhoods and housing, said: "Owning a dog brings great rewards but is also a big responsibility.

"We get a large number of complaints about fouling and that is why we are taking action."

New signs are going up around Doncaster warning dog owners that they have a duty to pick up after their pets, and council wardens will also be looking out for irresponsible owners.

Anyone caught will receive a 50 on-the-spot fixed penalty notice, or a fine of up to 1,000 if they are prosecuted. Doncaster Council is also launching a new "responsible dog owner" scheme. Wardens will be taking down the names and addresses of responsible owners and entering them into a quarterly prize draw for a "doggy hamper" supplied by Pets At Home.