A COUNCIL has launched a fresh appeal asking residents to do the dirty and report dog owners who they see failing to pick up their pet's mess.

Gravesham Council says it will exert a zero-tolerance policy on dog owners who persistently allow their animals to foul on public land.

Any owner caught allowing their dog to poop without using a scoop could face paying a £50 penalty.

If the case goes to court the maximum fine can be £1,000.

Under the Dog Fouling of Land Act of 1996 people in charge of dogs must clean up after them on any land to which the public have access.

Cabinet member for the environment and public health Councillor Lee Croxton said: "Unfortunately, a few irresponsible dog owners are letting their dogs foul our borough's pavements, without clearing up after them.

"We urge any resident who witnesses an owner repeatedly allowing their pet to mess up our streets to report such cases to the council's animal control officer who can take legal action.

Call 01474 337000 with information.