Whiteinch dog owners and their four legged friends gathered in Jordon St Park to compete in the city’s answer to Crufts, and to raise awareness amongst pet owners that they have a responsibility to clean up after their dogs.

ners and residents came together to showcase their pooches on May 31. Minnie, a collie who belongs to Mrs Louis Christie won the friendliest and fittest dog title. Prizes included calcium filled bones, doggy treats and Super Dog Capes.

The event was supported by Glasgow City Council’s award winning Clean Glasgow campaign, the Dogs Trust and a number of community groups.

Whilst the key issue of each of the dog shows is to stress the importance of cleaning up after your dog they will also allow the local community to come together for a fun day out with friends, families and pets.

Fairplay for Whiteinch organised the Jordon St Park dog show which included face painting, information stalls and dog awards. They have previously organised a teddy bears picnic.

Kathleen Harvey, a founder of Fairplay for Whiteinch regularly removes dog dirt from the park. Twelve bags of dog dirt were removed before the event took place on Saturday. Following the success of the dog show’s awareness raising re the issue of dog fouling the group have been inspired to create a gardening club for the area to enjoy.

Kathleen Harvey said; “Dog shows are a great platform for hosting fun days out for the whole community. It also allows us to raise awareness about the need for dog owners to take responsibility for their dogs and make sure they clean up after them.

“It was fantastic to see the community come together and enjoy the serenity of the park. It is a vast green area and should be enjoyed by all. I hope our dog show inspires all residents to take ownership of the park and their dogs.”

Ruth Simpson, executive member for land and environment services said: “Dog dirt poses a huge risk to the health and safety of people using parks and so we really need to tackle this issue head on.
“I’m delighted that so many community groups are getting involved in our campaign to change the behaviour of irresponsible dog owners. Together we can help to make our communities cleaner and ensure that Glasgow continues to be recognised as a vibrant and beautiful place to live, visit and work in.”

Groups or individuals who would like to get involved in community clean up events in their area are urged to call the Clean Glasgow hotline on 0800 027 7027 or access via the website www.cleanglasgow.com