Man fined for dog fouling offence at park

A MAN has been fined for failing to clean up after his dog at a Gwendraeth Valley park.

The 62-year-old was issued with the fixed penalty notice for £75 at Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park near Tumble.

Failure to pay could result in prosecution in the magistrates court and a maximum fine of up to £1,000.

Environmental enforcement officers were on patrol at the council-run attraction as part of a Wales-wide ‘day of action’ with Keep Wales Tidy.

The aim was to raise awareness of the problems caused by dog fouling and get people to change their habits. It is a serious health concern because toxocariasis (which my lead to blindness) can be contracted from ingesting eggs which develop in dog mess.

Council Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said: “Dog fouling is a top priority for Carmarthenshire County Council and we will not hesitate to prosecute those caught breaking the law in this way.

“Our enforcement officers carry out patrols seven-days-a-week across the county. It is an ongoing campaign and we are asking the public to help us catch those responsible by reporting offenders as part of our recently-launched ‘Dog Watch’ scheme.

“We would also like to remind dog owners that they can dispose of their dog mess in any public litter bin, not just those specifically for dog mess.

“By working together we can create a cleaner, greener and safer Carmarthenshire.”

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