East Devon roadshow will be held to help tackle fouling and out of control dogs

A 'Responsible Dog Owners' roadshow is being held to tackle complaints about fouling, dog-on-dog attacks and out-of-control dogs in East Devon.

East Devon District Council (EDDC) will be holding events between May and September to inform and educate dog owners who live in and visit the district this summer, including in Seaton and Beer.

Council enforcement officers have now stepped up regular patrols in the early mornings, evenings and weekends for the beaches across the district, as an added measure. They will be able to direct dog walkers to the correct areas of the beach and take enforcement action if appropriate.

Temporary signage will also be put up in dog fouling hotspots, encouraging owners to pick it up or face a fixed penalty notice of £80.

Hot spots areas will be determined by intelligence received from residents.

So far during 2021/22, the council has received 114 dog fouling complaints and 133 reports of general dog related nuisance including reports of dog-on-dog attacks and dogs not being under control.

During the events, officers from the council's environmental protection team will be on hand to give advice, record complaints and hand out items such as poo bags, pencils, and wristbands.

Devon Loves Dogs will also be attending several roadshows throughout the year to share useful information with dog owners.

The message of responsible dog ownership will also be presented to the dog owners of the future - primary school children. Workshops will be hosted for youngsters in the district's coastal towns, highlighting the dos and don'ts of dog ownership, including picking up after your dog and proper control of dogs.

Cllr Geoff Jung, EDDC's portfolio holder for the coast, country and environment, said: "Most people love pets, but dog owners need to understand not everyone does nor appreciates meeting an uncontrolled dog whilst walks at the beach or in the countryside, especially muddy or wet dogs!

"Then there are those few dog owners that don't pick up! Please be considerate when out walking your dogs and understand that other people may not appreciate a wet or muddy creating from your cute dog and please ensure you pick up and encourage others to do the same."

Weather permitting, the roadshow will be coming to Seton on Wednesday, May 25 from 2pm to 4pm, Thursday, June 30 from 10am to 12noon, Monday, July 25 from 1pm to 3pm, Friday, August 26 from 2pm to 4pm and Wednesday, September 28 from 9am to 11am.

Dates in Beer are Tuesday, May 31 from 10am to 12noon, Friday, June 17 from 10am to 12noon, Thursday, July 7 from 2pm to 4pm, Monday, August 1 from 1pm to 3pm and Friday, September 2 from 10am to 12noon.

Other events will be held in Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton and Sidmouth.