It is estimated that there are 7.4 million dogs in the UK.

Together, they produce up to 1,000 tonnes of faeces everyday. One dog is estimated to produce between 100-200g of faeces and some 0.25-1.25 litres of urine each day.

It has been calculated that around 60 percent of the dog owners in the UK (around 4.6 million adults) ignore their dog’s mess and leave it in public places for others to step in it. That might have been you....maybe?  OK some people always pick it up but hang it on a tree in a nice tidy package, but that litters the countryside.

What are the health risks associated with dog fouling?

Dog faeces carry harmful infections, the most widely known being Toxocariasis. Human toxocariasis is potentially a serious infection and is a direct consequence of soil or sand contamination with faeces carrying eggs of the parasite. The parasite can only infect humans if swallowed. Once swallowed the infection can last between six and 24 months. Frequently the infection is through the hands, but can also be with the dogs themselves or through inanimate objects such as wheels of toys, soles of shoes, etc. Many infected soil samples are found in children’s play areas and in the streets and as a result of this, Toxocariasis is mainly found in children between 18 months and five years. Eye disorders are the most commonly reported complaint associated with Toxocariasis, although other symptoms are vague aches, dizziness, nausea, asthma and epileptic fits.

Facts courtesy of ENCAMS, the charity that runs the
Keep Britain Tidy campaign. For more information click on the link below......