03-05-2025
Monmouthshire council issues fine warning to dog owners
Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) has warned dog owners of the potential penalties during their Dog Fouling Awareness Day.
The event, held on April 11 in Usk and Gilwern, was part of the "Give Dog Fouling the Red Card" scheme.
It aimed to engage with dog owners and raise awareness about responsible pet ownership.
The event highlighted the responsibilities associated with dog control in public spaces, especially following the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in 2024.
There have been signs installed in 'hot spot' areas across the county to tell dog owners about locations where dogs are not allowed, such as children's play areas, school grounds, and marked sports pitches.
The signs also indicate areas where dogs must be kept on a short lead, including Linda Vista Gardens in Abergavenny, MCC-managed cemeteries in Monmouth, Llanfoist, and Chepstow, as well as historically significant sites like Caldicot Castle and Abergavenny Castle.
Under the PSPO, an authorised officer can ask a person in charge of a dog to put their dog on a lead if it is deemed out of control, causing alarm or distress, or creating a nuisance.
Dog owners must also carry bags to collect their dog's waste.
Councillor Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for equality and engagement, said: "It has been nearly 12 months since we adopted the PSPO, which helps protect vulnerable members of our community.
"While most dog owners are responsible and considerate, a small minority are not.
"We will continue to ensure that all dog owners adhere to the rules set out in the PSPO."
MCC will issue a fixed penalty notice of £100 for violations of the PSPO.
Failure to pay this notice may result in the case being taken to court, where a fine of up to £1,000 could be imposed.
