Derry City and Strabane District Council launched the Green Dog Walker’s Pledge to promote responsible dog ownership. Mayor Ruairí McHugh introduced the scheme alongside a renewed enforcement campaign against dog fouling.

Dog owners can sign the pledge to commit to cleaning up after their pets and sharing waste bags with others. Participants receive a lead, key ring and waste bags in return.

The council enforces a £100 fixed penalty notice for failing to pick up dog waste, classifying it as littering. Enforcement officers will increase patrols in problem areas.

Dog waste carries bacteria and parasites that threaten public health, especially for children, older people and those with weakened immune systems.

Mayor Ruairí McHugh stated that dog fouling concerns residents across the council area and called cleaning up a basic civic duty to keep public spaces safe.

Principal Environmental Health Officer Enda Cummins noted that dog waste poses health hazards beyond inconvenience. He urged owners to carry bags, report incidents and expect fines where offences occur.

Residents can sign the pledge at the council website and report fouling incidents online.