Don’t mess with Argyll and Bute

This is Argyll and Bute Council’s uncompromising message to irresponsible dog owners.

It follows the revelation that 36 members of the public have been fined over the last year for failing to pick up their animals’ dirt.

The individuals were handed the £40 fixed penalty notices after council wardens witnessed them ignoring their dogs’ mess.

Councillor Robert Macintyre, Argyll and Bute’s spokesperson for Economy, Environment and Rural Affairs, says: ‘We are sending out a clear message that irresponsible dog owners will not be tolerated.

‘The responsibility for ensuring dogs do not foul public spaces rests with the owners. While the vast majority take that responsibility seriously, there are some who don’t.

‘Every dog owner knows they have a duty to clean up after their pet, so there really are no excuses for not doing so.

‘Our environment wardens will continue to be pro-active across the council area in a bid to catch and punish those who disregard the law’.

Anyone receiving a fine has 28 days in which to pay. If they fail to do so, it will increase to £60. Should anyone continue to ignore the notice, they risk a court summons and a possible £500 fine.

Cheaper and more helpful to others just to tuck some plastic bags in your pocket.

And by the way, we can’t claim credit for the cracking headline – it comes straight from the Council’s Press Office.