71 per cent of people say they encounter dog faeces daily in public places

71 per cent of people say they have encountered dog faeces daily in public places, according to a survey from the Irish Blue Cross.

The veterinary charity, which is urging pet owners to pick up and dispose of their dogs' excrement, surveyed over 750 people.

95 per cent of those surveyed said they think dog fouling is an issue in their local area.

63 per cent said they believe the problem has worsened in the last year.

The Irish Blue Cross is warning that dog faeces can carry harmful pathogens such as E. coli, Roundworm, Hookworm, Giardia, and Parvovirus, which can adversely affect people and pets, and can be fatal to dogs.

Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross, Dr Laura Mock, said: “Some parasites in dog waste can infect humans, especially children and can affect their eyes and organs.

"Bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella can also be present, especially in dogs who are fed raw meat diets, so picking up dog waste immediately reduces the chance of accidental contact or contamination.

"Picking up your dog’s poo has benefits for you and your dog too, as it gives you a chance to notice any changes and catch early signs of illness, potentially lowering veterinary costs. Regular removal also keeps parks and walking routes safer and more hygienic, encouraging healthy outdoor activity without exposure to harmful microbes.

"We also recommend that pets are regularly wormed as dogs can infect themselves by sniffing or stepping in contaminated faeces and later licking their paws.”