Argyll and Bute Council Leader, Councillor Robin Currie, is leading the call for dog owners to be responsible and pick up after their pups, and he is asking communities to support the campaign.
The council’s Environment, Development and Infrastructure committee backed plans to provide posters to local communities and develop a social media campaign to remind dog owners of their responsibilities.
Councillor Currie said: “Most people clean up after their dogs – we know this. However, we want to remind the one in 10 that don’t that this just isn’t acceptable.
“Dog fouling isn’t just an eyesore in our beautiful towns, parks and beaches. It’s a potential health hazard, especially for children, and it can be particularly unpleasant for wheelchair users and other people with disabilities.
“I’m sure if more people considered the effect not picking up after their dog has on others, they would be more considerate.”
Community councils and local groups will be offered posters that can be erected in popular dog-walking areas to act as a reminder to people to clean up after their pets.
Social media messaging will provide back up on the social and health reasons for making sure you and your dog don’t leave anything behind when out on your walk.
Councillor Currie added: “I know communities feel really strongly about this issue. We want to do something about it but we all need to act together. The council has limited resources so we need to target them effectively – so knowing where and when to send out our wardens would be helpful. If we have the evidence we need to take the appropriate action, we will.
“I will write to community councils personally to invite them to get in touch with us if they would like to work with us to tackle dog fouling in their local areas.”