School children lead the way in promoting responsible dog ownership
News release issued:
Pupils from St Catherine’s CE Primary School have teamed up with Wyre Forest District Council enforcement officers to promote responsible dog ownership and help tackle dog fouling in Marlpool, Kidderminster.
As part of their Archbishops’ Young Leaders Award, 15 pupils chose to use their community project to make a positive difference locally by encouraging dog owners to clean up after their pets.
Council enforcement officers visited the school to talk about responsible dog ownership, the impact of dog fouling and how the pupils could inspire people to look after shared spaces.
The pupils responded by creating eye-catching posters with clear, positive messages to encourage responsible behaviour. Entries were judged by council enforcement officers and Councillors Nathan Desmond and Vicky Caulfield.
The winners were announced at the school’s Young Leaders Award ceremony on Thursday 9 July. Their designs have now been turned into signs which can be seen around the local area.
Councillor Nathan Desmond, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Operational Services, said:
“It is fantastic to see young people taking pride in their local area and encouraging responsible dog ownership. Dog fouling is unpleasant, harmful to the environment and avoidable, and these pupils have shown real leadership in helping to get that message across.
“The winning signs will be a visible reminder to dog owners to do the right thing and clean up after their pets.”
Residents can have their say on dog control and dog fouling through the council’s Public Spaces Protection Order survey.
The survey is open until Monday 3 August 2026.