Two campaigns aimed at tackling dog fouling in the east of the county have been hailed a success.
Durham County Council visited the Dawdon area of Seaham and Horden, near Peterlee, to promote responsible dog ownership among residents.
As part of the campaigns, the council’s Civic Pride team, along with mascot Scoop the Dog, taught more than 600 local schoolchildren about being a responsible dog owner.
Signs were put up encouraging people to report those who fail to pick up their dog’s mess and surveys were handed out to evaluate resident’s views and act on any issues.
Patrols were carried out, and will continue to take place, at dog fouling hotspots with fixed penalty notices given to anyone who was seen failing to pick up after their pet.
A total of 67 dogs were microchipped at two local events, delivered by Stray Aid and neighbourhood wardens, and 30 people signed up to the council’s Green Dog Walkers initiative, which encourages dog owners to carry extra poo bags and give one to anyone who does not have one.
The free microchipping sessions came ahead of new legislation which comes into force from 6 April 2016 when all dogs aged eight weeks and over must be microchipped.
Ian Hoult, neighbourhood protection manager, Durham County Council, said: “We are committed to tackling issues like dog fouling which communities have highlighted as a concern.
“These campaigns are a good example of taking positive steps to deal with these concerns by educating people about the importance of being a responsible dog owner and, where necessary, taking enforcement action.”
Local member for Dawdon Cllr Kevin Shaw initially raised issues with dog fouling in Dawdon and funded the campaign there.
He said: “Dog fouling is a real issue – it looks terrible and can affect people’s health – and it’s only by raising awareness among those who fail to pick up after their pets that we can stop it.
“It was great to see such a positive response to the campaign and we look forward to seeing our streets and footpaths free of dog mess in future.”
Dog fouling can be reported at www.durham.gov.uk/dogfouling or by calling 03000 261 000.
Find out more about the Green Dog Walkers scheme at www.durham.gov.uk/greendogwalkers or call 03000 261 000.
For further information about dog microchipping and the change in law visit www.durham.gov.uk/microchipping or call 03000 261 000.
