Achi news desk-
Calgary dog owner Tara Duncan has started a colorful dog campaign this spring, thinking of a fun way to tackle a persistent problem.
Duncan is using the skills he has gained running Sign Gypsies, a local sign company, to spread the word about the importance of owners looking after their pets.
“My sign says ‘Clean up your mess’, with a little ‘Thank you’ sign and then it says ‘From the dogs'” said Duncan. “A lot of puppy graphics that are spread throughout the sign.”
Duncan has posted a colorful sign three times in recent weeks at Calgary dog parks.
On Thursday, she enjoyed talking about her sign with dog owners in the large off-leash area at Sue Higgins Park in southeast Calgary.
“I usually make birthday and graduation signs and it’s a slow time of year,” Duncan said. “So I thought, why not put up a fun sign, make people smile and hopefully they can realize that they need to clean up after their dogs.”
The problem is particularly evident during the spring, as the snow melts to reveal doggo.
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“There’s dirt everywhere,” said the dog’s owner, Pat Elgie.
“It’s the worst time of the year for him,” added co-owner Jackie Pratt.
Many people are perplexed that their fellow dog owners don’t seem to care about picking up after their pets.
“It’s gross,” said the dog’s owner, Jenn Tregale.
Duncan, a dog owner herself, often notices dirt on off-leash visits with her canine companion Finley.
“It’s always pretty disgusting,” Duncan said.
Many dog owners say they appreciate Duncan’s efforts.
“The sign is great,” Pratt said.
Duncan says she hopes her message sinks in.
“If it gets a few more people picking up after their dog, then it’s been successful,” Duncan said. “Hopefully it will make a difference.”
& copy 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
