Audio devices show success in reducing dog fouling

The age-old problem of dog fouling reared its ugly head once again at the February meeting of Athlone-Moate Municipal District last week with councillors being told that “a myriad of initiatives” have been undertaken, but that there is no “one fit solution.”

The issue was raised by Fianna Fail Cllr Frankie Keena, who wanted to know what initiatives the council is undertaking to encourage “responsible dog ownership” and to penalise dog owners whose animals “litter on our footpaths and parks.”

“This is a major problem and it is everywhere, to be honest” said Cllr Keena, who was told by way of a council reply to his question that among the initiatives being implemented to tackle dog fouling are the placement of audio devices and the promotion of the ‘Green Dog Walkers Scheme’ which is described as “a friendly, non-confrontational way to tackle dog litter.”

The meeting was told that previous analysis showed a reduction in dog fouling by 72% when audio devices were installed at the Shannon Walk and a 64% reduction when installed at the Greenway in Moate.

In relation to the ‘Green Dog Walkers Scheme’ the toolkit supplied to communities includes pledge forms, hi-vis vests, dog collar attachments which hold a roll of bags and outdoor signs.

“How much do these audible devices cost?” enquired Cllr Keena “and can they be installed in urban areas?” He was told that the cost of devices was not available to the meeting, but that it would be provided to him at a later stage.