Hertsmere launches new anti dog mess campaign

Hertsmere Council has joined forces with Keep Britain Tidy to deliver a new campaign aimed at encouraging dog owners to clean up after their pets. The borough is taking a stand against those that fail to pick up after their animal and cause a mess that can affect other residents.

The campaign is being rolled out by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy on a national level following a successful trial in a number of areas. The campaign managed to half the amount of dog mess in monitored areas.

The amount of dog mess left on the streets tends to increase throughout winter and at night, which has inspired the campaign. Posters will be used that feature glow in the dark eyes with the message 'we're watching you'. These posters have proved successful in areas similar to Hertsmere.

These posters, as well as stickers and posters that don't feature glow in the dark designs, are being put up in parks, alleyways, near schools, on high streets, and on council vehicles and noticeboards. The official launch date was November 24th.

Councillor Jean Heywood, environment portfolio holder, said: “Dog mess is an emotive issue that can affect everyone and it’s a problem on pavements and in parks that all councils face.  We know the majority of dog owners are responsible and like me wouldn’t dream of leaving it on the ground so it’s a real shame that a few dog walkers are spoiling our streets and award-winning parks by not picking up after their pet.”

She continued to say that the council is confident the new campaign will help to reduce the amount of dog mess across the borough. This campaign coupled with fines of up to £75 for failing to pick up after your dog, could help to stop the problem.     

Phil Barton, Keep Britain Tidy chief executive, said: “Our research tells us that people see dog fouling as, by far, the most unacceptable and dirtiest type of litter. This campaign has been proven to make a difference and encourage the minority of dog owners who don’t pick up after their pets to do the right thing.” 

Published 4th December, 2014

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