DO THE DECENT THING!- clean up after your dogs

A PET owner warned others to clean up after their dogs — after nearly losing his beloved animal because of faeces that were not picked up.

Shaun Stead and his family cut short a holiday in Tenerife when they learned German pointer Murphy was ill, with only a 15 to 20 per cent chance of survival.

Fourteen-month-old Murphy had contracted parvovirus — a highly contagious condition spread between dogs through contact with their poo.

Shaun, of Swinton, said: “We flew home as soon as we could after we got the call. It was horrendous and we felt totally helpless.

“The vet told us he probably wouldn’t survive, we were in bits and it was likely simply down to people not picking up after their dog ...totally avoidable.”

Murphy contracted “parvo” despite being vaccinated — and could barely stand and had lost a severe amount of weight when his family saw him.

The virus affects dogs’ gastro-intestinal tracts — and can be spread through even trace amounts of faeces, as well as on the animals’ hair and feet.

“We came very close to losing our boy,” said Shaun. “If you’re a dog owner, carry bags and pick up. There’s no excuse for not doing the decent thing.

“I wouldn’t want any animal lover to go through what we have.”

Research by Keep Britain Tidy has shown that dog fouling is an issue of concern to the wider public too.

A Rotherham Council spokesperson said: “It is not only deeply unpleasant, it’s dangerous.

“While rare, contact with dog excrement can cause toxocariasis, a nasty infection that can lead to dizziness, nausea, asthma and even blindness or seizures.

“While most dog owners are caring and responsible, there are still some people who don’t clean up after their pets.

“Anyone who fails to clear up after their dog can be issued with a fixed penalty notice of up to £150.

“If the case goes to court this could cost the owner or person in charge of the animal up to £1,000.”

Murphy spent a few weeks indoors as a precaution but has since returned to a healthy weight. Tests revealed that his vital organs are fine, with no lasting effects of the virus.