Derry City and Strabane District Council launched the Green Dog Walker’s Pledge and renewed an enforcement campaign against dog fouling this week. Mayor Councillor Ruairí McHugh introduced the measures.

Owners signing the pledge commit to removing pet waste and sharing spare bags with others. In exchange, signatories get a lead, key ring, and supply of waste bags.

The council enforces a 100-pound fixed penalty notice for littering via uncollected dog waste. Officers plan more patrols in identified problem spots.

Unremoved dog waste spreads bacteria and parasites that threaten children, older residents, and people with compromised immune systems.

Mayor McHugh said fouling affects walkways and parks throughout the council area. He described waste removal as a core responsibility to maintain clean public spaces.

Enda Cummins, the council's Principal Environmental Health Officer, called dog waste a health risk beyond mere inconvenience. He advised carrying bags for disposal in designated bins and requested reports of violations.

People can register for the pledge and submit fouling reports via council websites.