CONCERNS HAVE been raised that dogs are peeing in play parks in West Fife.

There have been specific issues with man’s best friend urinating on play equipment in the village of Saline.

Cllr Sam Steele for West Fife Coastal Villages posted on her Facebook page regarding dogs in the playpark: “I contacted Safer Communities Lead Officer on August 28.

"Officers will add area to patrol and will be extra vigilant for people allowing their dogs to urinate on the play equipment.

"No Dog Fouling" posters will be put up too.”

As previously reported in the Press, prior to the arrival of a play park in Public Park, dogs had the run of most of the area. The park also does not have a fence around it.

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Cllr Aude Boubaker-Calder commented: “It is essential that we ensure that our public spaces, especially play parks, remain safe and clean environments for our children (and their parents/carers) to enjoy without fear of potential dog attacks or exposure to dog fouling.

“I would strongly urge all dog owners to act responsibly and be mindful of the impact their pets can have on others.

“If your dog isn’t responsive, or you are in an area where young children are present, a safety-first approach is always best-keeping your dog on a lead helps prevent unnecessary risks.

“It also means that owners can keep an eye on their dogs when they relieve themselves to avoid potential dog fouling in an area full of children, such as a play park.

“As a parent myself, I know how much we value the peace of mind that comes from knowing play parks are safe spaces for our children and relatively clean areas.

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“I believe there is potential for the Council to explore signage encouraging dog owners to keep their dogs in control and not allow them to exercise in areas designated for children's play such as the signs used in the Glasgow Botanic Gardens put in place by Glasgow City Council.

“The Council could also explore designated areas where dogs could be allowed off leads in parks which would hopefully offer a positive balance.”

In addition to this, there have been several incidents in the past of off-lead dogs chasing the peacocks in the Glen.

When chased by a dog, the birds will try to get away and they are then at risk of getting injured or killed.

The volunteers with the peacocks lost white peacock Xander back in August 2021 in one such situation.

Technical officer Graeme Anderson said: "Most park users are responsible dog walkers, and although we cannot enforce owners to keep their dogs on a lead, park rules state that dogs should be kept under proper control or on a short lead. 

"Although we’ve a small team of Dog Wardens we’ve many more Safer Communities Officers who also patrol our streets and parks seven days a week.

“We ask all dog owners to keep their dogs under control whilst walking in public spaces.

"We would encourage anyone that has any concerns about dogs in the park to get in touch by calling 01592 583642 or emailing safercommunities.team@fife.gov.uk 

"Action will be taken in line with the Control of Dogs Scotland Act if appropriate."