Media Release

Wednesday, 7 October 2009

Dog owners can now ensure that their beloved pets don't leave behind surprises for the rest of the community with Council introducing dog waste bag dispenser units in parks and reserves.

Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Cr Greg Cruickshank said the bag dispenser units, installed recently by Council, provided a further convenience for pet owners to clean up after their dogs.

“Let's be honest, stepping in dog pooh is awful – not to mention pretty disgusting, and by installing these waste bag dispenser units in our parks and reserves we are encouraging pet owners to ensure they clean up after their dogs.

“This means we can not only make sure our parks and reserves continue to look great, but enables all of us to continue to enjoy these facilities.”

The bags, which are biodegradable and environmentally friendly, contain a disinfectant and can be put straight into normal waste bins after they have been used. Bag dispensers will be placed in high-visibility areas in parks and reserves throughout Swan Hill.

“I encourage our residents who do take their dogs out for a walk or run in our parks and reserves to ensure that they do use these bag dispensers to clean up after their pets,” Cr Cruickshank said.

“Residents who do not clean up after their dogs may be fined – so it is in everyone's best interest to make use of the bag dispensers next time you take the dog out for a walk.”

Cr Cruickshank said the bag dispensers enabled residents to demonstrate community pride in their city.

“Ensuring our environment stays clean for other residents and visitors to the area is another way to take pride in our community and its surroundings,” he said.

“Whether it's throwing that errant bit of street rubbish in the bin, or making sure your pet doesn't leave behind surprises – it all helps to keep our city looking its best.”