‘Rank’ dog owner fined £750 for allowing pet to poo in own garden after neighbours complained

A dog owner has been fined more than £750 for allowing their pet to poo in their own garden after neighbours complained about the smell.

The resident, who has not been named, ignored four notices from Durham County Council to clean up the mess before being hauled to court. After neighbours first made their complaints, the owner was served with a Community Protection Warning last October.

They were given a week to clear the mess but no action was taken when council officials inspected the property in Stanley, County Durham. The resident was prosecuted after failing to comply with a Community Protection Notice for failing to remove waste from their property.

The defendant did not attend court on 19 April, however the case was proven in absence. They now have fines and costs of £754 to pay.

‘It’s pretty rank’

One neighbour said: “I don’t know the person involved but I know the neighbours have been getting fed-up with the smell and having to look at it all the time. It’s pretty rank, especially when the weather gets warmer. You can only imagine how bad the stench will be.

“I think everyone’s pretty happy that the council have taken action.” Another added: “If you keep pets then you have to clean up after them but at least all the mess is in their own yard and not left on the paths were kids can step in it.”

The mess was ‘becoming a health risk’

The Neighbourhood Warden received a further complaint on 2 February with regards to dog poo and rubbish in the garden. A breach letter was sent to the resident and a further statement was submitted for court.

Ian Hoult, council neighbourhood protection manager, said: “The build-up of mess in the yard was not only unsightly, but was becoming a health risk, specifically for children in the area which is unacceptable. We receive almost 4,000 reports a year about untidy yards and gardens that are having a negative impact on our communities.

“On investigation we give people the chance to rectify the problem, however we will take action against those who don’t. We are asking the public to report untidy yards and gardens in their area via our Do It Online system or by calling 03000 26000.” The resident has until 17 May to pay £754 or face further legal action.