I am a resident of Matson, Gloucester, UK. Like many others in our community, I have been deeply affected by the issue of dog faeces being left behind in public places such as sports fields and children's play areas. This is not just an inconvenience but also a health hazard that puts both children and adults at risk.

Dog faeces can contain harmful parasites like Toxocara Canis which can cause serious illness if accidentally ingested or if it comes into contact with the eyes. According to Public Health England, there were 60 reported cases of toxocariasis in England and Wales alone in 2016 (Public Health England). The real number could be much higher as many cases go unreported.

To protect our community from these risks, we need to implement laws that make it an offence to walk a dog without a leash on sports fields or children's play areas. This will ensure that pet owners are held accountable for their pets' actions and encourage them to clean up after their dogs.

We urge local authorities in Matson, Gloucester to take action on this issue immediately. Please sign this petition to show your support for implementing mandatory leashing laws for dogs on sports fields and children's play areas.