DOG owners are being warned they could face hefty fines after a surge of complaints about fouling on Dewlands Common in Verwood.

Walkers say the problem has recently got worse, with the beauty spot dotted with doo doo all over.

One dog owner, Tamsyn Hirshfield, says she has had enough and is reporting it to the dog warden.

She has also launched a debate on Facebook about the issue.

She said: “I couldn’t believe the amount of dog poo on Dewlands Common yesterday. Come on people pick it up!

“I have kids and dogs. I pick up everyone else’s.

“I’m fed up with my kids treading in it. I thought Verwood would be better than Bournemouth for this.

“It has got worse since we moved here in the summer.

“I think we should name and shame if we see someone not picking up – it’s really not that hard to pick up your dogs’ poo.

Sam Loveless replied: “The Chase is just the same.

“I also have dogs and young children, it drives me mad getting it on pushchair wheels thanks to lazy people.

“If you can't be bothered to clean it up, don't own a dog!”

Amanda Wright said: “My husband and the footy team manager have to go around the pitch with a bag and spade before a match and pick up poop. Revolting!

“Lazy, inconsiderate dog-owners just open their car doors early in the morning and let their dogs run off and poo at Potterne.”

Sean Whitney, pollution manager at East Dorset District Council, said: “Dog walkers are expected to pick up after their dogs wherever they are and the vast majority are responsible and understand the unpleasantness that dog fouling can cause to those inadvertently stepping in it.

“All open spaces within East Dorset to which members of the public have access, except Forestry Commission land, are covered by the Fouling of Land by Dogs (East Dorset) Order 2010, which means that the minority of dog walkers who do not pick up after their dogs can face a fixed penalty of £75, reduced to £50 if paid within 7 days, or prosecution in the magistrates court with a maximum fine of £1,000.”