A LUDLOW resident says that the Covid-19 pandemic has led to too many people getting dogs without understanding the responsibilities.

The man who does not want to be named has said that parts of the town are covered with dog mess that owners are not clearing up.

“Dog poop all over the pavements,” he said.

“St Laurence green is awash with poops despite the bins at either end.

“When I moved here nine years ago, I was disgusted at the amount of poop on the streets and agitated for the poo bins now down Old Street and more prevalent in town.

“It is happening again, there are now turds all over the pavements again. This is one of the big responsibilities of getting a dog. Please people, pick up your dog poop, there are bins all over for that very purpose.

“We are lucky to live in a beautiful and safe town, and I don’t want to walk your dog’s poop into my house thanks, so don’t be a lazy or inconsiderate type, as none of the walked in poop will be from my dog.”

The man said that he has been saving for a dog for two years, aware of the responsibilities and costs of making sure the garden is properly fenced, affording the food insurance and pets bills.

“On my second visit to the local vet for weighing and worming tablets, I heard about how many dogs were already being given back or abandoned as people realise that a dog is an individual, comes with a large responsibility and a need for training and time or they aren’t pleasant companions, they stress you and you stress them,” he added.

“A stressed dog is angry on the lead. A stressed dog barks too often, a stressed and untrained dog, attacks other dogs, or worse, people.”

Ludlow has had campaigns in the past to try to reduce the amount of dog mess that has been left around the town.

A person who doesn’t clean up after their dog may face an on-the-spot fine of up to £80 and if they refuse to pay they can be taken to court and fined up to £1,000.