Teenager fined for failing to clean up after dog

A LLANELLI teenager has been fined for not cleaning up after her dog.

The council’s environmental enforcement officers were driving through Felinfoel when they saw the dog fouling in the grass verge.

The woman with the dog failed to pick up the mess and walked off.

The officers stopped the car and identified themselves explaining what they had seen and that it was a criminal offence.

The 19-year-old was issued with a fixed penalty notice for £75. Failure to pay could result in prosecution in the magistrates court and a fine of up to £1,000.

Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said he hoped this fine would act as a warning to others that anyone caught failing to clean up after their dog will be fined.

“There is nothing worse than stepping into dog mess not to mention the fact that it is a serious health risk. The majority of dog owners are responsible but unfortunately there are still a few who do not listen.

“The council’s enforcement officers carry out patrols across the county and will not hesitate to fine people. We are determined to clean up Carmarthenshire for both residents and visitors.”

Cllr Jones has made dog fouling one of his top priorities and is calling on the public to help the council catch those responsible as part of a ‘Dog Watch’ scheme.

He has also written to town and community councils asking them for hotspots in their areas so that officers can patrol.

To report dog fouling please call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567 or complete the online form at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk