Arran dog walkers urged to support Paws on Plastic
The many dog walkers on Arran are being urged to support the Paws on Plastic initiative which is being run throughout May by picking up at least two pieces of litter when out walking their dogs, writes Colin Smeeton.
The call from the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) comes after an increase in calls about incidents involving animals and discarded rubbish on the island and across the country.
Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: ‘We get countless reports every year of animals ingesting or becoming trapped or caught in litter or discarded fishing wire. Some litter is a choking hazard or can cause damage and restrict an animal’s ability to eat which can lead to starvation. Animals can also ingest rubbish which can be fatal. We issue guidance and advice to the public asking them to be responsible around wild animals through our #WildlifeWise programme.
The Paws on Plastic project is a fantastic extension of this and highlights the dangers litter can pose.
‘We fully support Paws on Plastic and encourage people to take part. The positive effect it will have for wildlife and local communities will be tremendous.’
Paws on Plastic was started by environmental enthusiast Marion Montgomery who began the non-profit enterprise from her home as a way to combat the harmful effects of litter, in particular plastic.
Marion said: ‘I started Paws on Plastic to help protect animals from the dangers of litter. As a responsible dog owner, I was walking my dogs with spare poo bags in my pocket and often noticed the same pieces of rubbish every day.
‘It really just came to me that if I removed it, it made a difference and it could save a life. It’s just fantastic so many dog owners have joined the cause and wish to do their own wee bit to protect animals and our precious environment. The beauty of it is that it only takes a minute when we’re out walking anyway but with 20,000 of us, it really does add up - to more than 30 million pieces a year in fact. Our aim is that it becomes a normal part of an everyday dog walk. All we ask is for a couple of pieces on every walk so it only takes a minute and is open to everyone, regardless of age or physical ability. The bonus is that it has a double effect as studies show that when streets are clean, less litter is actually dropped as you remove the easy excuse that ‘everyone does it’. I’d encourage dog owners across Scotland to join us.’
The Paws on Plastic initiative extends to walkers and everyone else whose efforts can help to clean up their communities while also taking care of its animals.