Dog mess campaign launched (From Salisbury Journal)

Dog mess campaign launched

10:35am Friday 7th September 2012 in News By Journal Reporter

A NEW campaign has been launched to try to encourage dog owners to pick up after their pets.

Salisbury City Council is offering people in the city free dog mess bags from supporting outlets across the city.

Parks assistant Polly Mason, said: “Dog mess is an unpleasant problem in our parks and open spaces – it’s a real health issue and can ruin a pleasant walk, run or picnic; it’s also a particular problem on our sports pitches.

“Most dog owners are responsible and do clean up after their dog. However, everyone has times where they forget to put a bag in their pocket – or they don’t carry enough.

“We would like to give people the opportunity to pick up a couple of free bags for such moments.”

Bags will be available from various city council buildings including the Guildhall, the Tourist Information Office and the Bemerton Heath Centre.

In addition, dog walkers will be able to pick up a bag from the sports pavilions at Hudson’s Field , Portway, Bishopdown and Harnham Recreation Ground on weekends when matches are being played.

Bags will be available from the Rugby Club and the campsite at Hudson’s Field, Victoria Park Tennis Club, Salisbury Arts Centre, and from The Old Mill and the sports and social club in Harnham.

Also stocking the bags are The Vets and Endell Veterinary Practice in Endless Street, Pets Corner at the Churchfields Industrial Estate, Pampurred Pets in Fisherton Street and the Allotment Association shop near Fisherton Recreation Ground. Supporting initiatives and events are being planned for next year.

For more information contact the council on 01722 342860 or email info@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk