It would be great if dogs cleaned up after themselves - they don't.

Under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997 if a dog fouls in a public place, such as a street, sports ground, school grounds, beach, park etc the owner must immediately clean up after their pet.

It is important to note that:

• Dog faeces can carry an infection known as toxocariasis.
• Toxocariasis can pass to humans through contact with contaminated faeces.
• Human Toxocariasis is a potentially serious infection, resulting in eye disorders, dizziness, nausea, asthma and epileptic fits.
• Don't let your dog become a danger to your own or other children in this way. ''Scoop that poop'' and dispose of it a proper manner.

Where Dog fouling occurs and is not immediately removed and properly disposed off by the owner of the Dog, this is an offence under Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act 1997. This is a difficult section to impose as it requires witness of the fouling, identification of the dog owner, and the witness to be able to testify that the owner left the waste.

How to report Dog Fouling

To report dog fouling fill in witness statement (form available below) and submit to environment@meathcoco.ie with associated photographic evidence if any.

What after a report is made?

• Following receipt of a witness statement, a fine may issue to the dog owner.
• If the fine is not paid court action may ensue. 
• Witnesses will be required to attend court and give evidence. 

Please note that court dates are often adjourned so you may be required to make yourself available on several dates, to be determined by the court.