Dog fouling up by 200 per cent during lockdown, says waste collection firm

A rubbish collection company says dog fouling has risen by 200 per cent across the UK.

By Jonathon Reilly

Published 18th Feb 2021, 16:45 BST

Updated 19th Feb 2021, 14:33 BST

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Divert.co.uk, which provides a litter removal service for councils and private landowners, is alarmed by the increase and the possible implications for public health.

The firm is calling on irresponsible owners to pick up after their dogs.

Mark Hall, divert.co.uk spokesman, said: “It is disgusting to see that some dog owners are failing to pick up after their pets, when it’s an offence and the waste can lead to serious illnesses.”

Research by divert.co.uk has found dog fouling has increased by 200 per cent in the UK during the coronavirus lockdown.

Research by divert.co.uk has found dog fouling has increased by 200 per cent in the UK during the coronavirus lockdown.

Divert.co.uk believes, as fewer people are out and about due to lockdown restrictions, irresponsible dog owners feel they are less likely to get caught failing to clean up after their pets.

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However, a Keep Britain Tidy study found nine out of ten dog owners regularly clean up after their pet.

The 10 per cent who don’t could be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100, which could increase to £1000 if it goes to court.

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