Council looking for hosts for Green Dog Walkers events  

19 Mar 2024

Northumberland County Council would like to hear from Parish & Town councils or local dog walking clubs who may be interested in hosting Green Dog Walker events, particularly in the Tynedale area. 
 
Green Dog Walkers is a volunteer scheme which encourages responsible dog ownership.  It is a community-led programme aimed at reducing dog fouling by promoting responsible dog ownership across Northumberland. 
 
At Green Dog Walkers events people will be able to sign up to the scheme, get their dog micro-chipped or check that their dog is properly micro-chipped.  They will also be able to collect free poo bags and get advice from the council’s animal welfare officer.   
 
Residents who sign up to the scheme pledge to always clean up after their dog, put the bag in a bin and to use a friendly approach to encourage other dog walkers to do the same.   
 
Northumberland County Councillor Gordon Stewart, cabinet member with responsibility for Looking after our Communities said: 
 
“We are extremely grateful to all of our Green Dog Walkers across the county for their commitment and we hope to get more members to sign up over the coming year.  
 
“Failing to clean up after your dog is not only unpleasant but dog dirt can carry serious diseases which can cause blindness and liver disorders, and children are the most susceptible.   
 
“We work hard to educate the public on responsible dog ownership and our commitment to effective enforcement will continue with patrols in problem areas across Northumberland and the issue of Fixed Penalty Notices. 
 
“Green Dog Walkers is intended to be a friendly and non-confrontational approach to changing attitudes about dog fouling in Northumberland in a positive and friendly way.” 

If you are interested in becoming a Green Dog Walker, or hosting a Green Dog Walker event   please email greendogwalkers@northumberland.gov.uk, or visit www.northumberland.gov.uk/greendogwalkers