DOZENS of dogs flocked to Barshaw Park in Paisley at the weekend to show support for Renfrewshire Council’s Take the Lead campaign.
More than 40 pooches along with 80 keen owners headed to the event on Sunday, May 14, which aimed to create a community of responsible dog owners across the local authority.
Each owner who went along to the walk signed up to the Responsible Dog Owner pledge which sets out that they will always pick up after their dog, always keep it on a lead in public places, offer bags to other owners who might be caught short, and positively encourage others to follow their example.
Those who attended the event also received a brand new lead, poo bag dispenser, and bags, and a light for night-time walks.
Councillor Michelle Campbell, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s infrastructure, land and environment policy board, said: “I’m delighted that so many dogs and their owners came along to show their support for the campaign and the atmosphere was really positive as we aim to create a community of responsible dog owners in Renfrewshire.
“Dog fouling is something that no one likes in our parks or on our pavements and the Take the Lead campaign aims to create ambassadors that will always pick up after their pets and be an example to owners who might not.
“I would encourage everyone to sign up to the pledge like I have, and I’ll ensure that my dog Chewie has his new lead on and that I always have bags with me ready to pick up after him – and if any dog owners need a bag to pick up after their dog, I’ll happily provide one.
“Keeping our communities clean and tidy is all our responsibility, so we should all take pride and help each other out.”
The launch of Take the Lead took place during the Big Spring Clean, a month-long event part of the Team Up to Clean Up campaign which encourages communities in the local authority to host a litter pick and encourage positive behaviour change where they live.
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