Council has launched a community awareness campaign designed to remind dog owners of their responsibility to pick up after their pooches.

“Our local community share a common interest in getting outdoors and enjoying our shire,” Mayor Ken Keith said.

“Council is encouraging all residents to show good dog walking etiquette, by remembering to 'scoop the poop' and dispose appropriately.

“No one likes stepping in dog poo, whether it's on a sports field or a footpath. 

“And we have unfortunately received a number of complaints from local sporting groups regarding the issue.”

The law requires that your dog must be under effective control at all times and that you dispose of dog poo in a suitable manner. 

Dogs are not permitted at schools, preschools, children's playgrounds and on the playing surfaces of sports fields, even if they are on a leash. 

Parkes Council Manager Regulation & Compliance Howard Orr stressed that picking up after your dogs in a public place was also a legal requirement of the Companion Animals Act.

“Dog owners who fail to do so may be issued with a fine in line with State legislation.

“Council encourages dog owners to exercise their four legged friends at the designated off-leash area, Spicer Park - corner of Bushman and East streets,” Mr Orr said.

“There is no doubt dogs make wonderful companions and are highly valued as family pets.”

Mr Orr offered some tips to follow when  in public with your animal companion:

Ensure your pet is safely contained;

Ensure your pet is not a nuisance;

Walk your dog on a leash or utilise Parkes Council's Spicer Park off-leash area; and

Scoop the poop.