Over 50 Irresponsible Dog Owners Across RCT Fined

Over 50 FINES have been issued to irresponsible dog owners in Rhondda Cynon Taf in just a few weeks.

Allowing your dog to foul in a public place is NOT acceptable at any time in RCT, especially during a pandemic when NHS resources are already stretched.

In October 2017, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council brought in tough measures, via its Public Spaces and Protection Order (PSPO) and increased the Fixed Penalty Notice amount to £100 in a bid to tackle the issue of dog fouling head on.

Whilst the majority of dog owners across the County Borough are very responsible, and adhere to the rules and clean up after their dogs, leading to a substantial drop of dog mess on RCT Streets* – there is still a minority who act irresponsibly and cause a problem that could ultimately have life changing consequences.

The Council has recently received reports in relation to some dog owners acting irresponsibly in some areas and the Council has taken firm action to deal with the unsightly issue by increasing its enforcement activities at key sites.

The majority of fines issued were for offences on sports pitches – even if an owner picks up after its dog has fouled in these areas, research has proved that some of the faeces remains in and on the pitch and could cause a health issue.

Dog owners are reminded that dogs are not permitted on sports fields on or off a lead. The use of local open, outdoor spaces has now become an even more vital part of our lives in recent months, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, and the Council is asking dog owners to adhere to the PSPO rules so that everyone can continue to enjoy them safely.

During these unprecedented times, the Council’s dedicated Streetcare team are doing all they can to carry out their ‘normal’ duties and we are calling out to residents to help us where they can, by simply cleaning up after their dogs – just think Bag IT and Bin IT! Despite the national emergency, the Council will and is taking action if necessary, but we are calling on dog owners to act responsibly at all times.

If you are aware of any dog owners who are not acting responsibly and would like to provide information anonymously, please call 01443 425002 or email whodoneit@rctcbc.gov.uk. Please provide as much detail as possible, including the regular walking locations and times, breed of dog etc.