THE CRACKDOWN on fouling by dogs - backed by threats of prosecution of offending owners - launched by Pendle Council is a scheme for other local authorities to follow.

For this is a widespread social problem that exists because the laws governing it are widely ignored, mainly because they are not enforced.

Prosecutions for dog fouling, like those for littering offences, are few and far between.

It is high time a greater sense of responsibility was brought to dog ownership.

Too often, selfish and thoughtless owners allow their pets to foul pavements and even open spaces like football pitches and other areas where children play.

And if there were more schemes like that at Pendle - based on increased assistance for dog owners and the threat of punishment if they shun it - there would be less of this anti-social nuisance and health-hazard problem and a greater sense among dog owners of their obligation towards others.

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