New dog dispensers installed in Meath town following local call for action
Athboy has installed new dog poop bag dispensers at two key locations in the town, aimed at helping dog owners keep the streets clean.
Fianna Fáil councillor Mike Bray, along with local dogs, Yogi and Ruby, was on hand to inspect the new facilities, which were recently installed outside the Medical Centre on Main Street and at Thornton’s Garden at the Coille Dios junction.
The initiative follows a motion by Cllr Bray passed at last year’s Kells Municipal District meeting to make it easier for dog owners to dispose of waste responsibly and support efforts to keep the town tidy.
The project was delivered with support from Meath County Council, Athboy Tidy Towns and other local groups.
Dog fouling remains a serious public health issue and, under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997, owners are required to clean up immediately if their dog fouls in a public place, including streets, parks, beaches or school grounds.
Beyond the legal obligation, the health risks are significant. Dog faeces can carry toxocariasis, an infection that can be transmitted to humans through contaminated waste. In serious cases, it can cause eye disorders, dizziness, asthma, nausea and, in rare instances, epileptic seizures — particularly in children.