A future generation of pet owners were the first to hear about a new initiative aimed at tackling dog fouling yesterday.
Primary five pupils at Aberdeen’s Skene Square School enjoyed meeting Scoop the dog – mascot for the Take the Lead on Dog Fouling initiative.
Organised by Aberdeen City Council’s environmental services department, city wardens and dog wardens, the project aims to teach children how to become responsible dog owners.
The scheme has been backed with a poster and leaflet campaign.
In the coming month, which has now been dubbed ‘Scooptember’, Scoop will visit other city schools in an effort to recruit pupils as ‘Scoop Troops’.
The youngsters will be encouraged to highlight the issue of dog fouling in the area around their local school.
Pupils will also be urged to promote responsible dog ownership amongst their families and friends.
The council’s convener of housing and environment Neil Cooney said: “Dog fouling is a blight on our streets, green spaces and communities.
“There is no excuse for not picking up after your pet.
“It is a criminal offence to allow your dog to foul public areas.
“Dog mess can contain some very nasty bacteria which can lead to serious illness and blindness in children.
“Scooptember is a fantastic initiative which will help education people to be responsible dog owners and make our city a nicer, clear place to walk and play in.”