If I was a psychologist I might understand why some people will not pick up their own dog’s dirt.

I receive regular letters and phone calls on the subject and there seems to be no excuse for this type of anti-social behaviour.

I am sure this isn’t just a problem in my ward either and Bradford Area Wardens know where the persistently bad areas are.

I have a dog myself and picking up his mess is a small price to pay for the pleasure of owning him.

There are consequences for not being responsible too, and I don’t think that anyone would like to be the cause of say, a toddler losing their sight.

But toxocariasis is an infection caused by the larvae of parasitic worms that live in the intestines of dogs and it can cause optical cellulosis, which can lead to blindness and even death if not treated within 72 hours.

This is an extreme example but it’s not hard to imagine how a child could be infected if they play where dogs are walked!

The wardens in Wharfedale Ward are on the lookout for anyone who can’t be bothered to take responsibility for their dog’s mess and they will be issuing fixed penalties of £80 rising to £1,000 for non-payment.

I am glad that they are stepping up patrols and I hope that we can name and shame the culprits.

Councillor Jackie Whiteley, (Cons) Wharfedale Ward