Latest news from Birddog Catwalk
Pet care expert Holly Bird is urging dog owners across Wiltshire, Bath and the Cotswolds to take even greater responsibility for cleaning up after their pets as tougher penalties for dog fouling could come into effect as soon as July.
From Monday June 29, local authorities will have the power to issue fixed penalty notices of up to £500 for dog fouling offences under the new Crime & Policing Act 2026. The legislation represents a significant increase from the current £100 penalty and forms part of wider efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve public spaces.
Holly, founder of premium pet-sitting and dog-walking company Birddog Catwalk based in Wiltshire, has welcomed the changes and believes they provide an important reminder that responsible pet ownership extends beyond the home.
“Responsible pet ownership is not a box to tick. It is the foundation of everything we do. The dogs in our care are treated as part of the family, and that means upholding the same standards in public spaces that we would expect of any caring owner. These fines are a reminder that having a dog is a genuine responsibility, and one that professional pet carers should take seriously every single day,” said Holly Bird, founder of Birddog Catwalk.
As well as increasing penalties for dog fouling, the Act allows enforcement officers to issue fines to dog walkers who fail to carry suitable waste bags. Exemptions apply to owners who are blind or have certain disabilities. The legislation also introduces tougher penalties for littering, street drinking and fly tipping.
Dog fouling remains one of the most common complaints received by councils across the UK, with concerns ranging from public health risks to environmental damage and the impact on local communities.
Holly and her team at Birddog Catwalk are using the introduction of the new legislation as an opportunity to raise awareness among clients and encourage best practice among all dog owners.
“Most of our clients are incredibly conscientious. They simply need support making sure those standards are maintained when they cannot be there themselves. That is exactly what we are here for. Whether it is a daily walk or extended care, they trust us to represent them and their pets well. That trust is everything to us,” said Holly.
Birddog Catwalk has built its reputation around responsible pet care, using environmentally conscious waste bags, minimising single-use plastics and promoting sustainable practices wherever possible.
Serving clients across Wiltshire, Bath and the Cotswolds, the team provide premium pet-sitting, dog-walking and animal care services tailored to the needs of dogs, cats and small pets. For more information, visit https://birddogcatwalk.com/
Article from Scott Media
