Dog-owners in Three Rivers are being urged to take responsibility for their animals after a surge in complaints about fouling across the district.

Three Rivers District Council said it had received a growing number of complaints about dog mess on footpaths and playing fields recently.

Phil Brading, the council’s public services and health portfolio holder, said: ''It doesn't take long to clear up after your dog and it creates a much nicer environment for everyone living, working and playing in the area. 

"A maximum fine of up to £1,000 can be enforced if anyone is caught allowing their dog to foul without clearing it up, however we would really rather people just cleared it up there and then. "