Friday, September 07, 2012

Council Urges The Public To Help Tackle Dog Fouling


Limerick County Council’s Environment Section has installed dog waste bins/dispensers along routes which are popular with dog walkers as part of an initiative aimed at tackling the problem of dog fouling in Limerick.
One unit has been placed on the Dooradoyle Road opposite Limerick County Hall and another is proposed for the village of Adare. Free ‘Pooper scoopers’ are also being made available to the public while stocks last.

Councillor Leo Walsh, Chairperson of the Environment Strategic Policy Committee said: “The Council is trying to get the message across that allowing your dog to foul in a public area and then not picking it up is simply unacceptable. These units and the widespread availability of pooper scoopers in Council offices should help dog owners to meet their civic duty not to cause a mess when exercising their pets “.

According to Helen Keays, Assistant Staff Officer, Environment Section, Limerick County Council: “Dog waste is not only a nuisance but can carry diseases which can be harmful to humans. The “scooped poop” should be disposed of in your nearest litter bin or dog fouling bin.”

Ms. Keays added: “Failing to clean up after your dog is the same as littering and is an offence under the Litter Pollution Acts. If you don’t clean up after your dog you could face an on the spot fine of €150 or up to a maximum fine of €3,000 in court for each offence. There are now a wide range of options available to dog owners for cleaning up after their dogs. Check at your local vet, pet shop or on-line.”

To avail of some “FREE POOPER SCOOPERS” (while stocks last) and a “no dog fouling ” leaflet, please call Limerick County Council’s Environment Section at 061-496264 or e-mail litter@limerickcoco.ie  Alternatively, you could reuse an old plastic or paper bag.