Fouling is a Red Card Offence

Cherwell District Council is aiming to cut dog fouling in the district by supporting National Poop Scoop Week arranged by the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust.

The awareness week will run from Monday, 11 June to Sunday, 17 June, when dog owners will be urged to “bag it and bin it”.

Schools across Oxfordshire are also being urged to show their support for Dogs Trust and its Poop Scoop campaign by ‘Putting their Paws up for Poop Scoop’.

Councillor Nigel Morris, Cherwell’s lead member for clean and green and ward member for Banbury Easington, said: “Dog fouling is one of the top complaints from people in my ward.

“In fact our annual survey shows it is one of the main concerns people have, along with keeping the streets clean.

“Dog mess can be very dangerous, especially for children. It only takes a couple of seconds to clear up so I’d urge all dog owners to do so.”

Dog faeces often carries the larvae of toxocara canis, or dog roundworm, which can cause severe eye infections in humans, sometimes ending in blindness.

Parvovirus can also be passed between dogs through contact with infected faeces and is potentially fatal.

The council carries out regular patrols of popular dog-walking spots and anyone caught not clearing up will be fined £50. If they fail to pay this, they could face a court-imposed penalty of up to £2,500.

Clarissa Baldwin, Dogs Trust chief executive said: “Dog fouling is an issue Dogs Trust is determined to tackle and we hope Poop Scoop Week will reinforce the importance of picking up dog poo!

“We hope that by getting the support of children around the country we can shape the future of dog ownership.

“We want people to be able to enjoy clean public areas all year round and if everyone remembers the importance of picking after their dog we can make a big difference.”

Residents should not tackle dog walkers directly. Instead, if they are aware of a repeat offender, they should provide the council with time and place the dog is usually walked.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the Dogs Trust campaign should visit www.poopscoopweek.co.uk where schools have a chance to get hold of free t-shirts.

To report someone for failing to clear up after their dog, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the council’s Environmental Services team on 01295 227007.