2006 is the Year of the Dog and Islington Council is targeting anti-social dog owners who allow their pets to foul in public - through free training events which encourage responsible dog ownership.
Under new anti-dog fouling legislation, irresponsible dog owners who do not clear up after their pets could face a fixed penalty fine of £75.
Islington Council has engaged environmental charity Groundwork Camden and Islington to host a series of dog training workshops to help promote the message of responsible dog ownership.
Eight dog training events are available for dogs of any type and age, and open to all dog owners. The training will focus on everyday problems such as excessive barking and poor obedience as well as raise awareness of responsible dog ownership, including clearing up after pets. The Good Dog Training will take place on:
· Tuesday 5 September: Edward Square, N1. 3.30-5pm
· Wednesday 13 September: Bingfield Park, N1. 4-6pm
· Saturday 16 September: Rosemary Gardens, N1. 2-4pm
· Sunday 17 September: Barnard Park, N1. 2-4pm
· Tuesday 19 September: Whittingdon Park, N19. 2-4pm
All are welcome. For further information, please contact Abigail Kelly on 020 7239 1385.
Cllr Lucy Watt, Executive Member for Environment said:
"Dogs bring so much joy to their owners' lives but a badly behaved dog or an irresponsible owner can ruin another person's enjoyment of our parks and open spaces.
"Dog owners who pick up after their pets set a great example - but for those who don't, we now have the power to issue bigger fines as a deterrent.
"Responsible ownership benefits the owner and their dog - so it's something we are proud to encourage through these free workshops."
Islington Council has identified eight 'hotspot' areas around the borough, and in addition to the workshops, Groundwork Camden and Islington is organising eight outreach sessions in schools located near to these hotspots. Children in the schools will be designing anti-dog fouling posters, writing poems and visiting the hotspot areas with "flags" to raise awareness among dog walkers of the problem of dog fouling.
Ends
Notes to editors:
· For further information on this press release, please contact Charles Dean on 020 7527 3224.
· A recent Tidy Britain Group (part of ENCAMS) survey found that 80 per cent of people questioned were 'greatly concerned' by dog mess, an indication that problems caused by dog fouling are all too common.
Groundwork Camden and Islington is one of 46 trusts nationwide which undertakes environmental improvement projects with the local community. They work in partnership with local authorities, residents, local businesses and community groups to improve the quality of the inner-city environment, promote healthy living and regenerate neglected or under used land for social and economic benefit. The charity receives core funding from the London Boroughs of Camden and Islington.
Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008