Dog fouling

Most residents will have been clearing up after their dog for some time, depositing the waste in the dog bins we provide around the District.

Some of you may be new dog owners and not be aware of this legislation.

Some may be unaware of the health consequences of not clearing up after your dog. Dogs can shed vast numbers of Toxocara eggs each time they make a faecal deposit. These eggs can be ingested by humans, with children being most at risk, who can become ill and sometimes lose their eyesight as a result.

Dog mess in public places is offensive to many people and it is, therefore, very important that you clear up after your dog.

The Council has adopted the Dog (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 and it is an offence for owners to allow their dog to foul and not clear up after it on St Mary's Cemetery, Caterham; The Glebe, Woldingham; Master Park, Oxted and the following:

• All carriageways with a speed limit of 40 mph or less, and adjoining footpaths and verges.
• All footpaths as defined in Section 329(1) of the Highways Act 1980.
• All land held by the Council for housing purposes, except enclosed gardens.
• All parks, sports, recreation grounds and open spaces owned and maintained by the Council.

To enquire about dog fouling signs, please contact Amenity Services on 01883 732949.