Enforcement officers are to step up patrols in Drefach Felindre following complaints of dog fouling.

Villagers have complained to the council about the amount of dog mess on the streets.

Anyone caught failing to pick up after their dog can be issued with a fixed penalty notice of £75 or face prosecution in court and a maximum fine of £1,000.

Enforcement officers will continue to patrol the village; however they are appealing to residents to help them catch offenders in the act by reporting offences under the Dog Watch scheme.

Local people often know who the offenders are, and can help tackle the problem of dog fouling in their area, by reporting them to the council.

Environmental enforcement officers can then follow up reported offences and target areas of greatest complaint.

Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said: “Dog fouling is one of the main causes of complaint to the council but we need the help of the public to help us catch those responsible.

“One of the main reasons that dog owners don't clear up after their dog is because they think there is not a council officer watching. However, if the message gets out that the general public can take direct action to report offences, dog owners are far more likely to behave responsibly.”

The council will be approaching Llangeler Community Council to help raise awareness of the issue with posters to put up in the village and leaflets to distribute. It is also planned to work with local schools.

Cllr Jones added: “The majority of dog owners take their responsibilities seriously, but unfortunately there is a small minority who do not listen. Dog fouling can have serious health implications. We do not want to fine people but we are determined to clean up Carmarthenshire.”

Residents can report offences either by completing the online form at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk or by calling Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567.

Page Updated On: 25/03/2014 (16:45)