Scoop up poop or face a fine

DOG owners have been told to clean up their act and scoop the poop.

Walsall Council last week asked owners to clear their pet's mess or face a penalty, as part of the 10th annual National Poop Scoop Week. The council said dog fouling is not only unpleasant but children are particularly vulnerable to the health risks caused by those who unwittingly come into contact with it.

Humans can get the roundworm Toxocara from dog faeces. Human infection of this disease is a direct consequence of soil or sand contamination with faeces carrying eggs of the parasite, which can last for as long as two years in contaminated soil.

The parasite can only infect humans if swallowed but can be transmitted through hands, eyes, mouth or cuts in the skin as well as with dogs themselves or through objects such as wheels of toys or soles of shoes.

Councillor Garry Perry, cabinet member for communities and partnerships at Walsall Council, said: "We believe every dog owner has a responsibility to pick up after their dog. It's such a shame that a small number of owners put dogs in a bad light, as there are millions of responsible owners and well-behaved dogs."

Anyone aware of offenders in their neighbourhood can contact the dog warden service on 01922 652210 or email dogs@walsall.gov.uk, who will then investigate and take appropriate action.