No dog fouling fines were issued in Donegal last year, marking the fourth year in a row without penalties.
Donegal County Council has said the absence of fines is due to difficulties under current legislation, which requires a dog warden to witness the act of dog fouling in a public place and the owner failing to remove and properly dispose of the waste.
Those who are caught in the act risk a €150 on-the-spot fine.
The council confirmed that surveys of dog walkers were carried out and verbal warnings were issued during 2025 as part of efforts to address the issue.
The poor practices of dog owners were raised to the council at the January Plenary meeting, where Glenties Councillor Brian Carr called for a countywide clampdown on dog fouling.
Cllr Carr pointed out the need for public awareness measures, improved signage and facilities, stronger enforcement and increased, more accessible dog warden patrols.
Following the withdrawal of the ISPCA from the Donegal Dog Warden Service in 2026, Donegal County Council has signed a two-year contract with Midland Animal Care Ltd. The company is bringing in a third Dog Warden in accordance with the requirements of their contract.
Midland also confirmed that a primary focus of their work will be a comprehensive countywide campaign to increase awareness of responsible dog ownership and care.
Cllr Carr said the planned expansion of the dog warden service was an ideal opportunity to increase patrols and enforcement across the county.
In recent weeks, Cllr Carr welcomed a dog warden to his local area and confirmed they will also be patrolling Glenties, Ardara, Narin, Fintown, Lettermacaward and Doochary going forward.
As part of the dog wardens’ campaign, they are also spreading awareness that the fines for failing to comply with dog ownership regulations range from €150 to €300 depending on the offence.
Donegal County Council’s “Any Bag, Any Bin” campaign is an initiative aimed at addressing the persistent issue of dog fouling in public spaces.
By emphasising the ease and importance of proper waste disposal, the slogan encourages dog owners to take responsibility for cleaning up after their pets using any type of bag and disposing of it in any public bin.
The council complements this slogan with ongoing social media campaigns, highlighting:
• The health risks of dog fouling (e.g., diseases like toxocariasis).
• Legal responsibilities and potential fines for non-compliance.
• The environmental and aesthetic impact of not picking up after dogs.
Their efforts aim to foster community pride and ensure public areas are clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
Zero dog fouling fines in Donegal in four years was last modified: February 14th, 2026 by Staff Writer
Tags: