Several towns in East Devon will be visited by a 'Responsible Dog Owners' roadshow to help resolve complaints over badly behaved dogs – and their owners.

Dog fouling, dog-on-dog-attacks and out of control dogs are becoming and increasing problem in East Devon.

Between May and September 2022, East Devon District Council will hold a roadshow event to help educate and inform dog downers who live in East Devon, or who are visiting this summer.

In 2021/22, East Devon District Council received 114 dog fouling complaints and 133 reports of general dog related nuisance, including reports of dog-on-dog attacks and dogs not being under proper control.

Council enforcement officers have increased their patrols during the morning, early evening and on weekends on local beaches. On May 1 dog bans on Devon beaches came into force and the wardens will be available to direct people to the correct part of the beach if they have a dog.

Dog fouling hotspots will be established via intelligence from local residents and these areas will see increased signage reminding dog owners of the £80 fixed penalty notice for not picking up after their dog.

Officers from the council will be at the events to answer questions, record complaints and hand out items such as poo bags, pencils, and wristbands.

Local school children will also be involved. Workshops at primary schools will take place which will teach the dog owners of tomorrow about the importance of picking up after your dog and keeping it under control.

Cllr Geoff Jung, EDDC's portfolio holder for the coast, country and environment, said: "Most people love pets, but dog owners need to understand not everyone does nor appreciates meeting an uncontrolled dog whilst walks at the beach or in the countryside, especially muddy or wet dogs!

"Then there are those few dog owners that don't pick up! Please be considerate when out walking your dogs and understand that other people may not appreciate a wet or muddy creating from your cute dog and please ensure you pick up and encourage others to do the same."

When and where are the roadshows?

EXMOUTH

Thursday, 9 June 2pm – 4pm

Monday, 4 July 1pm – 3pm

Friday, 5 August 10am – 12pm

Wednesday, 7 September 2pm – 4pm

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON

Wednesday, 11 May 1pm – 3pm

Thursday, 16 June 10am - 12pm   

Monday, 11 July 2pm – 4pm

Friday, 12 August - 1pm – 3pm

Wednesday, 14 September - 10am – 12pm

SIDMOUTH

Tuesday, 17 May - 10am – 12pm

Thursday, 23 June - 13:00 – 15:00

Tuesday, 19 July - 2pm – 4pm 

Friday, 19 August- 10am – 12pm

Wednesday, 21 September  - 2pm – 4pm

SEATON

Wednesday, 25 May 2pm – 4pm

Thursday, 30 June 10am – 12pm

Monday, 25 July 1pm – 3pm

Friday, 26 August 2pm – 4pm

Wednesday, 28 September 9am – 11am

BEER

Tuesday, 31 May 10am – 12pm

Friday, 17 June 10am – 12pm

Thursday, 7 July 2pm – 4pm

Monday, 1 August 1pm – 3pm

Friday, 2nd September 10am – 12pm

There is more information about reporting a dog here.