Dog owner prosecuted after his pet fouls land

64-year-old dog owner John Quarrell has been taken to court after not picking up the mess his dog left behind.

Bury magistrates heard that on Wednesday 25 July 2012 a patrolling dog warden saw a cross breed dog straying and fouling on Byron Road, Greenmount, Bury.

The warden saw the dog run into a house on nearby Holcombe Road and later spoke to Quarrell at the property who admitted that the dog belonged to him.

Quarrell was issued with a £50 fixed penalty notice, which he did not pay. The matter was then taken to Bury Magistrates Court on 7 March 2013, where Quarrell pleaded guilty to failing to remove faeces forthwith from an area of designated land. He was given a six-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £150 costs.

Councillor Gill Campbell, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and regeneration, said: “Some people might think that if they don’t see their dog foul they cannot be prosecuted or given a penalty notice – this is not true. I hope this case sends a message to all those who don't pick up after their dogs or allow them to stray that we won’t tolerate it and will take action.

“We know that this is an issue that concerns lots of our residents and businesses. We really need everyone's help, either by cleaning up after their dogs or by providing details of irresponsible owners; then can we can continue to tackle the issue and carry out prosecutions like this one.” 

ENDS

Press release issued: 12 March 2013.

Picture attached: Mr Quarrell’s dog. (NB: This is not a picture of the offence, but a picture to identify the dog which was witnessed straying and fouling).