Cumberland Council is launching Operation T.U.R.D (Together, United for Responsible Dog Ownership)—a bold new campaign aimed at tackling the persistent issue of dog fouling in our communities.
This initiative brings together education, engagement, and enforcement to encourage responsible dog ownership and protect public spaces.
Dog fouling is more than just an unpleasant nuisance—it poses health risks, damages public spaces, and affects the quality of life for residents. Through this campaign, the council will work alongside community groups, responsible dog owners, and enforcement teams to create cleaner, safer environments for everyone.
The campaign name is deliberately bold and humorous to grab attention, spark conversations, and increase public engagement. By using creativity to highlight a serious issue, the council aims to make responsible dog ownership a topic of discussion and action.
As part of the initiative, enforcement officers will also promote the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) and highlight the dangers of dog fouling.
Cumberland Council has a zero-tolerance policy on dog fouling, and clear enforcement measures will hold offenders accountable. Poo Bag Checkpoints will be set up at key locations, where staff will engage with dog walkers, check if they have waste bags, and provide them if needed—reinforcing that officers are present, watching, and taking action.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
"Dog fouling is an issue that affects everyone—it’s unsightly, unhygienic, and completely unacceptable. Through Operation T.U.R.D, we’re taking a bold and proactive approach to tackle this problem head-on. We have a zero-tolerance policy, and our enforcement teams will be issuing Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) to those who fail to clean up after their pets, reinforcing the council’s commitment to tackling this issue.
“By combining education, engagement, and enforcement, we’re making it clear that failing to clean up after your dog will not be tolerated. We want residents to feel proud of their communities, and this campaign is just one of the many ways we’re working to create cleaner, safer public spaces for everyone.
“We encourage all responsible dog owners, community groups, and local representatives to get involved and support this important initiative."
Everyone has a role to play in keeping Cumberland clean and welcoming. Through education, engagement, and enforcement, this campaign will:
- Ensure communities thrive
- Empower residents to take action
- Keep public spaces beautiful and accessible
- Make Cumberland a more attractive place to live and visit
The campaign will be led by Cumberland Enforcement Officers, who will be on the ground, engaging with residents, educating dog owners, and taking firm action against those who fail to clean up after their pets.
For more information or to report dog fouling in your area, visit https://www.cumberland.gov.uk/bins-recycling-and-street-cleaning/street-cleaning/report-dog-fouling