BY JACK THOMSON

TACKLING dog fouling in Renfrewshire is proving to be a “challenge”, an environment officer has admitted.

In the last year 16 fixed penalty notices have been handed out to irresponsible pet owners, while 643 targeted patrols have taken place in streets identified as problematic.

Chris Dalrymple, the council’s communities and regulatory manager, told Wednesday’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board: “It’s a challenge but it’s one we are trying to tackle.

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“We have to be able to witness it. There’s also challenges around surveillance.

“A patrol is not just about enforcement, it’s about inspecting the streets and stencilling to remind people to pick up after themselves.”

Mr Dalrymple also touched on the possibility of wardens going out in plainclothes.

“If they see wardens, they’re less likely to dog foul,” he added.

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Dog owners who don’t pick up their pet’s mess and dispose of it properly face a fine of £80.

Board convener Councillor Cathy McEwan confirmed four of the fixed penalty notices had been paid.

“That is much better than in the past,” she claimed.

Dog fouling is a civil offence, which means unpaid fines are referred to the council’s debt recovery agency. 

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