What you can report to us
If you see a person who does not pick up their dog's fouling, you can report it to us. We’ll investigate it and target our patrols if needed.
Never challenge anyone aggressively about dog fouling or dog ownership.
If you think dog fouling is an issue where you live, you can ask for a No Dog Fouling sign to be placed there.
What you must do if your dog fouls in a public place
When you are out with your dog, you should make sure you always have a bag with you when you take the dog for a walk.
If your dog defecates in a public space, you must put its waste in a plastic bag and put the bag in a dog waste bin or any outdoor public litter bin.
Fines
It's an offence to not clean up after your dog if it defecates:
- in any public place including footpaths or grass areas
- on private land without the owner's consent.
It is the responsibility of the person in charge of the dog in public, not the owner.
You can be fined £80 issued under the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 if you do not pick up the dog's mess and dispose of it properly.
The penalty increases to £100 if it’s not paid within 28 days.
Before you report it
Tell us as much detail as possible, including:
- the exact address if you know it, or the name of a local landmark or nearby place
- details of the incident, such as a description of the dog or person, name or address of the owner if you know it
- any other useful information, like the date or time (no longer than 10 days ago) or if it’s happened before
- your name
- your phone number or email address.
You can also upload photos if you have them.
You can report the incident anonymously, however our investigation into the issue will be limited.
If you tell us your name and contact details, this will help us to investigate a report fully.
How to report it
Report it online
Other ways to report it
You can also report it by:
- phone on 0300 300 0380
- email at wardens.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk
After you’ve reported it
If you’ve given us contact details, we may get in touch if we need more information.
We’ll investigate your report, and our animal welfare wardens may patrol the area to make sure people pick up and bin their dog’s mess.
However, we will not contact you with any updates on your report.