Cork dog-owners urged to take heed of publicity campaign and clean up after their pets

Dog owners across Co Cork are being urged to take heed of a new council publicity campaign aimed at making them aware of their responsibilities to clean up after their pets.

The issue was raised by Bantry-based Fianna Fáil councillor Patrick Gerard Murphy at the recent meeting of Cork County Council's Western Division. Mr Murphy commended the council on the new publicity campaign aimed at raising public awareness of the issue.

Mr Murphy said: "We are trying to do something about dog fouling and people need to take responsibility for their own dogs, especially in the summer months. The beaches are thronged in the good weather and people really need to make sure they clean up the mess.”

Fine Gael councillor John Michael Foley said it was time dog owners realised they had to keep their pets on a lead in public and that they were responsible if their pets fouled in public areas. 

"It’s really important we reiterate the importance of this campaign and it’s not just beaches. The Tidy Towns people are also delighted with the campaign because less dog-fouling makes their job a lot easier too."

The six-week campaign began on July 4 and includes social media posts and radio advertising. The campaign focuses on positive, friendly messages to encourage dog owners and walkers to act responsibly and clean up after their pets.

The main message is simple but clear: “Bag it, Bin it.” Additional key messages include: Protect public health; always pick up after your dog; compostable bags are also litter; keep your dog under control; and no bin? take it home.

As part of the campaign, a video will be shared featuring real people, including a wheelchair user, children, an older person, and a cyclist, all urging the public to do their part and keep our shared spaces clean and safe for everyone.

This article is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme