Volunteers handle dog dirt issue

Pet owners will be encouraged to clean up dog mess while out for walks

Locals from two neighbouring villages have teamed up to embark on a unique dog fouling survey in a bid to clean up their streets.

Volunteers in Denny and Dunipace, near Falkirk, intend to count the amount of dog dirt left lying on the ground.

The results of the survey, part of a Green Dog Walkers project, will be used to measure if moves to reduce dog dirt in the area have been successful.

The green dog walkers aim to enlist the support of all local dog owners.

Following the survey, volunteers will approach pet owners to sign a pledge urging them to clean up after their animals and to wear a specially-designed armband identifying them as green dog walkers.

Michelle McCallum, 59, is behind the project.

She came to Scotland from New Mexico where she said similar projects had proved successful.

The friendliness and even creative humour of the project will be the tone at all times Michelle McCallum

Ms McCallum said: "In a survey carried out by Falkirk Council last year, dog fouling was the number two concern for people in this area.

"It's something that a lot of people feel quite strongly about, particularly because of the health risks of dog poo.

"Not only that, during my research, I've had people from other areas of the UK wanting to know more about our project so they can see about doing something similar in their area.

"Green Dog Walkers will receive clear instructions to never confront another dog walker in an antagonistic manner. The friendliness and even creative humour of the project will be the tone at all times."

The council said they will ensure steady supplies of biodegradable dog bags and increase the number of dog waste bins in the area.

Councillor Adrian Mahoney, convener of the environment and heritage committee said: "This is the first time a complete volunteer driven project has been tried in the Falkirk Council area to tackle dog dirt.

"We will monitor results during the year-long pilot and if successful, the Green Dog Walking project could be extended to towns and villages throughout the area."

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