Clean up after your dog - or risk a fine

This comes after a number of complaints of dog fouling across the local authority area.

It is an offence not to immediately remove the dog fouling from any public space and dispose of it in the nearest dog waste bin, litterbin or domestic waste bin.

The council’s community safety officers patrol areas throughout East Renfrewshire in an effort to combat dog fouling however it is difficult, whilst in uniform, to catch people.

To mitigate this, officers carry out plain clothed patrols in areas where dog fouling has been reported.

If a person is caught they will receive a fixed penalty of £80, rising to £100 if not paid within 28 days.

Offenders can also be reported to the Procurator Fiscal and may be fined up to £500 if convicted.

Councillor Colm Merrick, Community Services and Community Safety Convener, said: “Many of our residents across all ages get great fun and companionship from having a dog as a pet.

“Owning a dog also carries responsibilities, including cleaning up after them.

“I would ask those in charge of dogs outside to make sure they always lift their dog’s mess and deposit it safely in a litter bin.

“This way we can all contribute to keeping our precious public spaces clean and safe for all members of the public who wish to use them.”

If residents witness dog fouling, it can be reported on the council’s website or via the confidential Ring and Report helpline on 0800 013 0076.