Manchester roaming dogs' owners prosecuted by council
Dog owners who allow their pets to roam have been prosecuted and fined by Manchester City Council.
Three owners, who were discovered after their dogs led patrolling council officers back them, have been fined a total of £2,700.
The offenders incurred the substantial fines after they refused to pay £80 fixed penalty notices and ignored reminder letters.
Their cases were heard at Manchester Magistrates' Court in their absence.
Paul Andrews, executive member for neighbourhood services, said: "These prosecutions are sending out a strong message telling dog owners that they must not let their animal wander around alone.
"Lone animals risk hurting themselves and can become a nuisance on the roads.
"There is also the chance a dog will foul with no one to pick it up. This is a health hazard, especially to young children, who are susceptible to the disease toxocariasis."