There is only one thing more disgusting than seeing dog poo on the ground, and that’s stepping in it. Actually, I tell a lie, getting it on your hands is vomit- inducing.

There’s no shortage of the stuff either. It’s everywhere, and I think the problem is even getting worse.

The Irish Blue Cross is an animal charity, and it is urging pet owners to pick up and dispose of their dogs’ poo after their recent survey revealed 83% of respondents have come into unwanted contact with dog faeces in the last 12 months.

Some 63% of respondents believe the problem has worsened in the last year, and seven in 10 people are encountering dog poo daily, in public places.

It’s problematic across the water too. Keep Britain Tidy did some research into this problem and they found that 4% - approximately 520,000 dog owners - admit to leaving their dog’s poo unbagged, and they calculated that this equates to an estimated 35.3 tonnes of poo left on the ground in UK parks every single day.

But fear not, I have some breaking news. Dog fouling in public places is coming to an end in Ireland.

Yes, it’s true, and from September, 2026, our streets will be poo-free. Visitors to my home town of Cobh from the cruise ships will enjoy an enhanced tourist experience by not having to dodge the dog turds.

Imagine that! Letting the grandchildren roam freely in a turd-less society. I can hardly contain my excitement, but before we get........

© Evening Echo