Good dogs will be leading by example in Holme Wood this week.
Bradford Council is launching its Good Dog Campaign to encourage owners to take responsibility for their pets, ensure they are healthy and well-cared for, do not pose a danger to residents and clean up after them.
The Good Dog Campaign has already been successful in Haworth and is being held as part of the national Big Tidy Up.
Throughout this week, Bradford Council's Dog Warden Service will be on hand advising owners about their responsibilities to pick up mess. Anyone caught allowing their dog to foul will face a £50 fixed penalty notice, or £1,000 if found guilty in court.
They will also be advising residents how to report stray dogs, dog fouling and excessive barking to the Council.
West Yorkshire Police's Neighbourhood Policing Team will also be on hand to give advice on dangerous dogs and the RSPCA will be offering free micro-chipping for dogs and cats, along with worming and flea treatments. They will also be issuing cat neutering vouchers and advice.
Coun Anne Hawkesworth, the Executive Member for Environment and Culture, said: "Dogs can bring a lot of pleasure to people's lives but it is important that they do not become a nuisance for other residents with fouling or excessive barking.
"The Good Dog Campaign encourages people to take pride in their dogs, to look after them properly and clean up after them. It has been very successful in other areas and I am sure it will make a difference to Holme Wood."
Sergeant Shelton Newsham, from the Neighbourhood Policing Team which covers Holme Wood, said: "We welcome and support the Good Dog Campaign. By helping educate people about dogs, I hope that owners will take a responsible attitude to their pets and ensure they don't become a nuisance to other people. We will also be providing information about what to do about dangerous dogs."
The events have been organised by Bradford Council's Streets Ahead neighbourhood management team, working with Holme Wood Executive.
Residents who wish to report stray dogs, dog fouling or excessive barking can ring the Council's Environmental Health hotline on 01274 434366.
Dangerous dogs are dealt with by telephoning the police on 0845 6060606 for non-emergencies, and 999 for emergencies only.
Officer/Contact
Liz Parker
Holme Wood Neighbourhood Manager
Telephone: 01274 433557
Media Relations Officer
Sarah Linley
Telephone: 01274 433526
Fax: 01274 432005
Email: press.communications@bradford.gov.uk
Date: 30.09.08
