Britain boasts bustling cities and gorgeous countryside that attracts everyone from tourists to hillwalkers to dog walkers.
However, it is the last category that proves to leave the biggest mess behind.
Dog fouling has been the plight of nature-lovers and residents alike and with an estimated 12.9 million dogs in the UK.
Kennel Store has now revealed the worst places in England and Wales for dog fouling fines in the past 5 years.
Neil Hutchinson from Kennel Store said: “Dog fouling is illegal in the UK and the law states that being unaware a dog has fouled or not having a suitable bag is not a reasonable excuse, and could result in dog walkers being penalised.
“Not only this, but it is extremely dangerous as contact with dog excrement can cause toxocariasis – a nasty infection that can lead to dizziness, nausea, asthma and even blindness or seizures.
“When investigating fine procedures in each district council, we discovered some councils do not implement fines, and alternatively they offer education as to why not picking up dog excrement is dangerous and the importance of keeping our streets clean.”
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1. Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
The worst place for dog fouling in the UK is officially Barnsley. The northern English market town slapped 445 fines on inconsiderate dog walkers since 2017, the largest amount in England or Wales. (Credit: Getty) Photo: Getty Images
2. Wirral Council
Aerial view over suburban homes and roads in Birkenhead, Wirral. (Credit: Adobe) Photo: Adobe
3. Burnley Borough Council
Burnley takes the not-so coveted bronze position on the list. Dog-walkers in Burley were given 366 fines since 2017. (Credit: Adobe) Photo: Adobe
4. Northumberland Council
Another hotspot for tourists, Northumberland is often touted for its nature-walks and woodland areas. However, it has a bad dog fouling problem, with 319 fines handed to dog-walkers in the past 5 years. Photo: Adobe