Warning to irresponsible pet owners

Horsham Rural City Council leaders have reminded residents that they might be issued with an on-the-spot fine if they fail to remove and appropriately dispose of their dog poo when in a public place.

The council’s local laws require a person in charge of a dog that defecates in a public place to immediately remove the faeces and deposit them as litter in a lawful manner.

They must also have in their possession the means to collect and dispose of their dog’s droppings.

Planning and economic director Angela Murphy said while most people were doing the right thing, there had been a recent increase in dog faeces on nature strips, footpaths, parks and other public places.

“It is very unpleasant and dog owners need to take responsibility,” she said.

If a dog defecates in a public place and the person in charge does not immediately remove and dispose of the faeces, they face an on-the-spot fine of $118.50. People not carrying a collection bag might be issued with a $39.50 fine.

Ms Murphy said that there were several bins with bag dispensers around Horsham, particularly near dog off-leash areas.

“We recommend people carry two bags at all times so that they can demonstrate they have the means to collect droppings,” she said.

“If you don’t have pockets, you might consider tying them to the lead. Please respect others and abide by the rules.

“If you don’t pick up your dog’s faeces, you are essentially littering and there will be consequences.”

Ms Murphy reminded people that while Horsham is an on-lead city, there were several offleash areas.

She said as in other public spaces, people were required to remove and appropriately dispose of their dog faeces in off-leash areas.

People can visit www.hrcc.vic.gov.au for a community map showing off-leash areas.