Rushcliffe Borough Council has thanked the majority of dog owners who clean up after their pets, but warned that not everyone follows the rules. The council continues to take action by educating dog owners, responding to complaints, monitoring problem areas, and issuing fines when necessary.
Council officers also carry out patrols to ensure dogs are kept on leads in designated areas, including Rushcliffe Country Park. Signs at each site explain the rules clearly.
Dog fouling on public footpaths and playing fields remains a serious issue. It can cause health problems and, in severe cases, lead to blindness through a condition called toxocariasis. This infection is caused by the roundworm Toxocara canis, which is found in dog faeces.
To help tackle this, a Borough-wide Dog Control Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is in place. It aims to protect residents by setting clear rules for dog owners. The renewal of the order was confirmed at the council’s Cabinet meeting on May 13. More details, including the inclusion of Tollerton, are available on the council’s Public Spaces Protection Order page.
The renewed PSPO will run for three years, starting in July 2025. New measures include a limit on the number of dogs that can be walked at once. A maximum of six dogs is allowed, but only four in certain areas such as Gresham Sports Park, West Park, and Alford Road in West Bridgford.
The PSPO also strengthens enforcement in dog exclusion zones. These include all fenced or enclosed children’s play areas, multi-use games areas, skate parks, and outdoor gyms across the borough.
Councillor Rob Inglis, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety, said:
“Thank you to the many responsible dog owners who do the right thing. To the few who ignore the rules—be aware that we monitor behaviour and issue fines, even for not carrying waste bags.”
He added: “Dog fouling is not only unpleasant, but also a health risk. We will continue to act where problems are found and work hard to protect our communities.”
“It’s encouraging that more than 90 per cent of respondents to the PSPO consultation supported its renewal. We’ll keep reviewing the order over the next three years and stay in close contact with dog owners and pet businesses to understand how the rules are working.”
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