Cwmbran boy, 8, left 'covered' in dog poo at football practice

Cwmbran boy, 8, left 'covered' in dog poo at football practice

A football club in Wales is taking a stand against dog fouling following an incident where a young player was left “covered” in dog waste during a practice session. The coach of Croesyceiliog Athletic FC in Cwmbran, Torfaen, expressed his concern over the prevalence of dog waste in parks and sports pitches, prompting the club to collaborate with Torfaen council to address the issue. In light of a recent research study revealing the health risks associated with not picking up dog feces, efforts are being made to raise awareness and promote responsible ownership.

Scientists at Aberystwyth University conducted tests on dog waste samples and found that a significant proportion of feces left by owners contained potentially harmful pathogens, compared to those picked up as per regulations. Keep Wales Tidy, a charity focused on environmental preservation, emphasized the importance of owners taking accountability, especially with the expected increase in dog fouling cases during the winter months. The issue extends beyond inconvenience, as children and pets alike face health risks from exposure to untreated dog waste.

Nathaen Lucas, a coach at Croesyceiliog Athletic and a dog owner himself, highlighted the ongoing battle against dog fouling on the fields where young athletes train. Despite proactive measures like early pitch inspections before each session, instances of children encountering dog waste remain prevalent. The club has been working closely with local authorities to address the problem and implement strategies to discourage irresponsible behaviors. Enforcement officers have been deployed to monitor the site and collaborate with community organizations to mitigate the impact of dog fouling.

Torfaen council acknowledged the severity of the issue and emphasized the importance of collective action to combat dog fouling in public spaces. While efforts are being made to enforce existing regulations, the discreet nature of some offenders makes it challenging to catch them in the act. The council’s collaboration with Croesyceiliog Athletic FC and other stakeholders aims to enhance surveillance and deterrence measures against irresponsible pet owners. Heightened public awareness and a shift towards cultural norms of responsible ownership are essential to address the persistent problem of dog fouling in communities across Wales

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