Municipal police in Krakow, southern Poland, have declared war on dogs fouling pavements.

Owners caught not clearing up after a walk with their pet may face a hefty fine of at least 500 zloty (almost 150 euro).

The cleanliness of Cracovian pavements was taken up by the city’s president Jacek Majchrowski himself, who in January established a special task force to deal with the problem.

It has been calculated that dogs leave behind some 6 tonnes of waste on the streets each day. To help clear the minefield, the city has decided to launch a campaign for cleaner pavements, add 100 collecting bins to the existing 400, and distribute free poop bags.

Kraków law enforcers warn that they will treat lazy dog owners with all due severity – and that the fines can be as much as 5000 zloty if the owner is taken to court. (fk/pcm)