Dog owners urged to act responsibly

The signs warn dog owners that they could face fixed fines of £500 – or up to £1,000 if convicted – if they allow their dog to foul, do not put it on a lead when instructed, or fail to produce a bag to pick after their pets.

Earlier this year Harborough District Council adopted new powers to create Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs).

Cllr Neil Bannister, who has responsibility for environment and regulation at Harborough District Council, said: “The majority of dog owners are responsible but there is a small minority who are spoiling the district for others. These signs, which have been put up in parks and other areas, make it clear that fines will be issued to anyone behaving irresponsibly with their dog.”

Dog owner Michael Malin (pictured above with Cllr Bannister), from Market Harborough, said: “I always pick up after my dog but there are some people who don’t so I hope these signs have a positive effect.”

Find out more at www.harborough.gov.uk/dogcontrols