Dogs & Children's Play Areas

Parents and Carers are reminded that dogs are not allowed in ANY of the Children's Playgrounds in the Parish, regardless of whether they are on a lead or not. This rule applies not only to the Playgrounds under the control of the Parish Council but also those for which Dartford Borough Council has responsibility. This rule does not apply to dogs that assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

RoSPA advise that dogs in Children's Playgrounds represent major health and injury hazards such as -

• Toxocariasis - an infection caused by roundworm parasites, most commonly found in cats,dogs and foxes faeces
• evidence exists that dogs can also carry E.coli and hepatitis in their faeces
• the fact that there are over 7,000 admissions to hospital for dog bites and attacks annually in the UK with children under 10 years of age the most likely to be admitted

In addition, allowing a dog to damage property, including Playground safety surfacing and children's play equipment is a criminal offence and maybe subject to prosecution.

Some people, especially small children, can find dogs intimidating so

DO -

• keep your dog in sight and under control at all times
• put your dog on a lead if necessary
• remember other park users may be afriad of your dog
• make sure your dog doesn't distrurb or harass wildlife

DONT -

• allow your dog to run and jump on other people or dogs without an invitation
• let your dog enter water such as rivers or lakes
• allow your dog to damage any play equipment/play surfacing
• allow your dog tyo damage trees