Green dog walker’s scheme launched

The Green Dog Walkers Scheme has been launched in Edinburgh to encourage pet owners to take responsibility and clean up after them.

Volunteers pledge to encourage changes in attitudes about dog fouling in a non-confrontational, friendly way. Dog walkers are encouraged to act as ambassadors for responsible ownership and are asked to ‘pledge’ to always:

  • clean up after their dog;
  • wear a GDW armband or put a GDW collar on their dog;
  • carry extra waste bags;
  • be happy to be approached and give a waste bag to those without one.

Developed by Falkirk Council, the scheme has had such a positive effect that it has been adopted by several local authorities.

Results include a drop in the number of complaints about dog fouling, an increase in local cleanliness scores, and positive feedback from the public.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “Evidence from other local authorities which have adopted the Green Dog Walkers Scheme shows that it has had a lot of success in tackling the anti-social issue of fouling.

“I would like to thank the many responsible dog walkers who do care about the environment and pick up waste. If anyone has any concerns about dog fouling, I urge them to call the Dish the Dirt hotline on 0300 456 3476.”

The scheme will be rolled out through community groups in the south of the city initially, with others areas following afterwards. Anyone who is interested in the scheme should contact their local environmental wardens through their neighbourhood office.

The Council’s website has more information about dog fouling and the Green Dog Walker scheme.

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