Dog owners warned clean up or pay up

DOG owners in Burry Port are being warned to clean up after their pets – or pay up!

The council’s environmental enforcement officers will be stepping up patrols in the area following a request from local members.

County councillors Pat Jones and Stephen James say that dog fouling is a problem throughout the town. Now they are calling on officers to dish out fines to those who are responsible for dirtying the streets.

Anyone caught by officers failing to clean up after their dogs will be issued with a fixed penalty notice of £75. They could also be prosecuted through the magistrates’ courts where the maximum fine is £1,000.

Councillor Jones said: “The majority of residents take their responsibilities seriously, but there is a small minority of people who do not listen and are not cleaning up after their animals.

“Some of the streets are in a terrible state with dog mess everywhere; there is also a problem at the harbour, which attracts visitors from all over the county and further afield, what type of impression does this give of Burry Port?

“There is dog fouling at the park which is popular with families and for playing football and rugby and if they land in dog mess they’ll know about it, it can be very serious.”

Dog mess can lead to the spread of diseases such as toxocariasis, which in extreme cases can cause blindness in children.

Owners are being encouraged to always keep a supply of bags near their dog’s lead so they don’t forget when they go out for a walk.

Councillor James added: “This is a very dog friendly town, but unfortunately there are few careless dog owners that are spoiling it.

“Perhaps if people are fined, it will send out the right message that this type of anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.”

If residents can help the council to identify those responsible they can phone Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567 giving as much information as possible including the time, date and location, a description of the dog and person in charge of the dog.