Two local businesses, Developing Dogs and Jurassic Bark, have teamed up to help provide a solution to the problems of dog mess in Ely, Littleport and surrounding villages.
Creating the Responsible Dog Walker campaign, which provides free poo bags and information on how to be a responsible dog walker, business owners Sian Ryan and Jarl Ford are aiming to support the local council in tackling the issues of dog mess and to highlight the positive steps that can be taken to allow everyone to share and enjoy our open spaces. Sian, owner of Developing Dogs says “Obviously we love dogs, and we love taking them for walks, but we also appreciate that it’s our responsibility to make sure that our dogs aren’t a nuisance to other walkers, park users or dog owners. Not everyone likes dogs, and not all dogs want to say hello to other dogs; our campaign aims to remind people that they can still have fun with their dogs but they should be aware of the needs of others too. “
Alongside increasing awareness of legal responsibilities and consideration for others, the Responsible Dog Walker Campaign is giving out monthly supplies of free poo bags via the Littleport branch of Jurassic Bark. Jarl, co-owner of Jurassic Bark, says “The Responsible Dog Walker campaign is something that we are really pleased to offer. Launching the campaign at a dog show in Pocket Park on May 4th gave us the perfect place to talk to dog owners, who very much welcomed the programme. Now along with our existing customers, anyone can come to our shop in Littleport and take up to 60 free bags a month with no obligation”
Dave White, East Cambridgeshire District Council’s Waste Services Team Leader says “The Council is keen to support any initiative, such as this, that encourages responsible dog ownership. Irresponsible owners who fail to clear up after their dog cause great inconvenience and potential health risks to others, and risk being issued with £50 Fixed Penalty Notices. Dog owners should always carry a supply of bags to clear up, and appropriately dispose of used bags.”
To claim free poo bags dog owners need to visit Jurassic Bark at Unit 3B in the Saxon Business Park off the A10 and sign up to the Responsible Dog Walker campaign. Each month participating owners will also be entered into a monthly draw to win a session for exclusive use of the 8 acre dog walking and activity field at Developing Dogs.