FED-UP residents are using spray paint in a bid to send a message to selfish dog owners who fail to pick up their pooch’s poop, writes Gregg Kelly. 

There is growing anger about the amount of dog fouling taking place in Inchinnan, with fears that the mess is putting children’s health at risk.

It is claimed professional dog walkers are among those who are adding to the problem by failing to clean up after their four-legged friends.

Campaigners have resorted to spraying messages on pavements in a bid to shame offenders into changing their ways.

The messages include ‘Someone isn’t picking up after their dog. Is it you?’

Another reads ‘Kids play here. Please pick up your dog poo!’

Maggie Morrison, secretary of Inchinnan Community Council, said: “The situation is so frustrating.

“There are professional dog walkers in the area who are simply letting dogs off the leash to poop anywhere. The dogs are pooping on the very same piece of greenbelt that kids in the area use to play football. Dog owners need to take more responsibility.”

In one morning, members of St Mirren Youth Club managed to pick up more than 300 bags of dog dirt from their Inchinnan pitch.

Club chairman Stephen Mann said: “Alongside the bags of dog poo, we’ve picked up prams, deckchairs and even tyres.”

A spokesman for Renfrewshire Council called on dog owners to act responsibly.

He said: “Inchinnan Community Council have been provided with signage, stencilling and paint to highlight the issue.

“Dog owners should be aware that any public waste bin can be used to dispose of dog waste, so it is unacceptable for an owner to fail to pick up after their dog, including leaving bags behind, and those caught will be issued with on-the-spot fines.

“Our wardens are increasing patrols in hotspot areas to ensure we provide a visible presence and deterrent.”

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