Star Comment: These dog owners are a disgrace
Things aren't as bad as they used to be. The days of dogs roaming wild are long since gone. There's a sense of order in our parks and public spaces. Poop scoops and doggie bags are the norm, rather than the exception to the rule.
And let's be absolutely clear about this, the vast majority of dog owners take their responsibilities very seriously. Unfortunately, a stubborn minority still refuse to acknowledge their duty to protect our community spaces.
These reckless and uncaring owners let their dogs run wild, fouling public spaces and sports fields. It is astonishing that the problem persists. It is 2014, public health authorities have been banging the drum on this issue for decades.
Things are particularly bad at Newport Rugby Club, which may be forced to cancel matches because of the mess on its fields. Volunteers waste time clearing up after dogs, whose owners can't be bothered to do so.
The risks of dog dirt are well known. But, as a few thoughtless owners in Newport seem to have forgotten them, they bear repeating.
Dog mess can lead to toxocariasis, a rare infection caused by roundworm parasites. It is spread from animals to humans via their infected faeces.
Roundworm parasites are found in cats, dogs and foxes and young children are at the greatest risk – the very same group that enjoy playing on public open spaces and sports fields.
The disease can cause coughs, high temperatures, headaches, stomach pain and in rare cases, roundworm larvae can infect the liver, lungs, brain or eyes. Fatigue, loss of appetite, breathing difficulties and blurred or cloudy vision can result.
Most responsible members of the community are already aware of the problems and make sure they clean up after their animals. It's the least that others ought to expect.
But a hardcore seem to ignore the message. They wilfully ignore the many public notices that dot our open spaces.
It is appalling that a popular rugby club, with 350 players and 200 social members of its club, should have to consider postponing matches so that its players do not have to end matches caked in excrement.
Those responsible for this sorry state of affairs should hang their heads in shame.
