Dog fouling

If you own a dog, or are looking after a dog, it is your responsibility to clean up after it.

You should always pick waste up and put it in the nearest litter bin.

Don't forget - if your dog is caught fouling in a public place and you fail to pick it up, you can be fined £50.

Under the Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983, we can also prosecute offenders and issue them with a maximum fine of £500.

You should:

carry a plastic bag or 'poop scoop' with you
clean up every time your dog fouls
teach your dog to go to the toilet in your garden before you leave the house
never let your dog onto the street to foul
use special 'dog toilet areas' in parks if they are provided
respect dog-free areas.

As well as leading to dirty streets and unsafe parks, dog fouling can cause health problems in humans.

For example, toxocariasis, commonly caused by dog roundworms, can be spread to humans through contact with contaminated faeces.

The infection can enter the bloodstream and spread to the heart, liver, lungs, brain, muscles and eyes where it can cause damage, as well as breathing difficulties, asthma and, in some cases, blindness.

Help and advice

Our dog wardens can provide advice on toilet training your dog. Call them on 028 9027 0431 for more information.

You can also call this number to report dog fouling in a public area.