Local Tidy Towns group targets dog fouling in new clean-up drive

A renewed campaign to tackle dog fouling in Boyle has been recently launched by Boyle Tidy Towns in partnership with Waterways Ireland and Roscommon County Council, following growing concerns about animal waste being left in public areas.

Volunteers say the problem has become increasingly visible across the town, prompting action to encourage greater responsibility among dog owners. As part of the initiative, chalk-style spray markings are being used to draw attention to dog fouling hotspots and prompt reflection among those who fail to clean up after their pets.

Boyle Tidy Towns volunteer Tárlach O’Maolain said the campaign is about confronting an issue that affects everyone. “The main issue is people leaving dog poo and not picking it up,” he said. “We want people to face the problem and take responsibility.”

Concerns intensified after dog waste was found at the gates of the children’s playground in Boyle, an incident described as particularly worrying by volunteers. In response, organisers are reminding dog owners that there are no shortages of facilities to help them dispose of waste responsibly.

Free dog waste bags are available at the playground and at dispensers throughout the town, including The Pleasure Grounds, Meadowvale Green, Plunkett Avenue and Boyle Abbey, with a new location planned for the Boyle Harbour Marina canal walk. There are also eleven waste bins positioned across Boyle for public use.

“We’ve made it as easy as possible,” Mr O’Maolain added. “There are bags and bins available. There’s really no excuse. We’re simply asking people to plan their walking routes and clean up after their dogs.”

The message from Boyle Tidy Towns is clear and simple: “Bag it! Bin it! Bring it Home!” 

Organisers hope the campaign will lead to cleaner streets, safer play areas and a more attractive town for residents and visitors alike.