Blackpool RUFC hits out over recurring problem of dog fouling left on its pitches
“Dog fouling has become a recurring problem on both our training pitch and our playing pitch.”
A rugby club has hit out over dog fouling on its pitches and called on dog walkers to try and keep their pets off the playing areas.
Blackpool RUFC, which plays home matches at Mossom Lane, off Fleetwood Road in Norbreck, has put out a message on social media saying its players are having to contend with dog mess when they play matches.
There are concerns about serious infections associated with dog faeces which can have long-term health implications.
The long-established club plays its matches in the NOWIRUL Wayne Lord Plumbing Division 2 League.
To make matters more complicated, some of the land where the club is based is also open to the public, and although the club stresses the pitches are on land owned by the club, the area is not within an enclosed sports ground.
The club post, which appeared on local social media sites, stated: “We need to address an issue that has unfortunately become increasingly bad around our pitches.
“Over the last few training sessions, as well as both of our pre-season friendlies, several players came off the pitch covered in what was very clearly more than just mud.
“Dog fouling has become a recurring problem on both our training pitch and our playing pitch, and we are therefore asking all dog owners and walkers to stop using Blackpool RUFC’s grounds as a dog-walking area.
“We appreciate that many responsible dog owners pick up after their dogs. However, even when waste is picked up, it is impossible to guarantee that the pitch is completely clean.
“Dog faeces can contain harmful bacteria and parasites which can cause serious infections, particularly through the cuts and grazes that are commonplace in rugby.
“Infections can lead to complications including loss of sight or amputation.”
The club says dogs are not permitted anywhere within an area marked in red on the map it showed with the post.
It adds: “CCTV covers the playing areas and grounds with offenders reported to the council dog warden.
“Please respect our players, coaches, volunteers and facilities and use alternative areas to exercise your dogs.”