City Council calls 'foul' on Derry's dog owners

Derry City Council has warned it will prosecute dog owners whose pets foul in public places in their absence.

The warning follows a report on the actions taken by the council's dog control team last October and November.

A report presented to the council's Environmental Services Committee revealed there were 48 reports of dog fouling during the two month period.

In a clampdown, dog owners must now ensure their dog is microchipped and up-to-date contact information maintained.

This will allow dog wardens with hand-held scanners to carry out checks on unaccompanied dogs, the owners of which  be prosecuted if there is a witness.