It's Time to Clean Up After Your Dog

Puppy in a park

Summer is finally here and we're all looking forward to lazy days in the park, leisurely walks and relaxing in 'the great outdoors'.

Unfortunately, the sight of dog's mess in our local parks and streets causes offence to many people. That's why Rochdale Council has joined forces with Dogs Trust (formerly the NCDL), the UK's largest dog welfare charity, to urge dog owners everywhere to be responsible and clear up after their canine companions.

Rochdale Council is taking part in Dogs Trust Fifth National Poop Scoop Week from 14 - 20 June 2004. The Council is installing 'poop scoop' dispensers in Queens Park, Heywood to encourage dog owners to bag and bin their dog's mess.

Residents on Back O' th' Moss are being offered FREE microchipping for their dogs.

Children from Lower Place Primary school in Rochdale are helping the Council to design awareness signs to be put on school playing fields that explain to adults how dangerous dog mess can be to small children.

Environmental Management will also be holding a series of road shows in open spaces across the borough that have particular dog fouling problems. They will team up with local residents and school children, to give out free poop a scoop bags and information to dog owners.

Anyone is welcome to take part in National Poop Scoop Week, with Dogs Trust and Rochdale Council this year. Even if you don't own a dog, there are many ways you can get involved to help us to help you enjoy the Great British outdoors free from the problems caused by dog waste.

For more information on Dogs Trust National Poop Scoop Week please call the charity on 0207 833 7620. For more information on your local event contact Nick Jones or Tara Dumas on 0161 653 9626.

Roadshows are being held throughout the borough of Rochdale:
Milnrow Memorial Park, Pennines Wednesday 16 June 9am until 12noon
Queens Park, Heywood Thursday 17 June 9am until 12noon
Bowlee Community Park, Middleton Thursday 17 June, 1pm until 4pm
Cronkeyshaw Common, Rochdale Friday 18 June, 9am until 12noon.