New laws which aim to 'get tough' with irresponsible dog owners are due to come into force in July. <br><br>It follows a massive public consultation in which more than 1,700 residents told the council their views.<br><br>People who fail to clean up after their pets can be fined, along with owners who refuse to put their dog on a lead when asked by authorised officers including street wardens, park wardens and Anti-social Behaviour teams on our estates. <br><br>The Dog Control Orders, due to be introduced on 14 July, also mean dogs will be banned from some parks and open spaces. <br><br>Along with children's play areas, sports areas and nature conservation areas originally proposed by the council, ornamental squares and other sites will also be included. <br><br>Councillor Ruth Polling, Islington Council's Executive Member for Parks said: "I'm chuffed that so many people let us know their views. It meant we were able to listen to residents' views and we have revised our proposals as a result. <br><br>"We have tried very hard to balance the needs of dog owners and non-dog owners in considering our final recommendations. We will also be keeping the situation under review to make sure we get things right.<br><br>"This is as much about education as enforcement. We'd much rather the small minority of irresponsible dog owners change their ways, so we don't have to issue any fines at all. But we will if we have to!"<br><br>Residents are urged to help the council by reporting problems in their area on 020 7527 2000.<br><br>The new laws will be enforced by a variety of officers who have received special training. <br><br>The legislation requiring owners to clear up after their pets, and put their dog on a lead when asked by an authorised officer, will apply across the borough. <br><br><br>ENDS <br><br>For more information please call Chris Weeks on 020 7527 3032 <br><br>PICTURE: Cllr Ruth Polling with dog owner Michael Glowacki
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009