Bath & North East Somerset Council has issued a strong appeal to dog owners to keep their pets on leads while visiting cemeteries across Somerset. This follows multiple complaints about dogs running free, fouling graves, and displaying aggressive behavior toward mourners and staff.
Residents have reported that dogs allowed off-lead have caused significant disturbances, including running between active grounds maintenance machinery, frightening visitors, and behaving aggressively toward cemetery workers. These incidents are occurring at all council-managed cemeteries in the area, creating safety concerns for both people and animals.
Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Communications and Civic Services, acknowledged the responsible actions of most dog owners but highlighted a persistent problem with some letting their dogs roam freely despite ongoing awareness campaigns. She emphasized the disrespect caused by dogs fouling not just general grounds but graves themselves, noting the health risks dog excrement poses to humans, such as infections that can lead to serious conditions in rare cases.
READ MORE: New M5 Retail Park to Create Hundreds of Jobs Without Disrupting Upgraded Link Road
READ MORE: Marco Pierre White Jr Admits to Burglary and Theft of Collectable Jellycat Toys
“We urge all dog owners to respect these sacred spaces and the memory of loved ones resting there by keeping their dogs on leads at all times," said Councillor Rigby. The council continues to prioritize public safety and the dignity of cemetery visitors, calling on everyone to help maintain a safe and respectful environment.