TOUGH new regulations are needed to tackle irresponsible dog-walkers trying to control upwards of 15 animals at a time.

Park workers, conservationists and professional firms want the council to act following complaints that many are flouting restrictions at Dawsholm Park in Maryhill.

It is claimed some commercial walkers are handling up to 15 dogs at a time, which they are unable to control, with many failing to clean up after the animals.

Professional dog-walking has become increasingly common in the past five years, with people being paid £12 to £14 per hour to exercise each pet. Currently anyone can set themselves up as a dog walker.

Last month Edinburgh City Council became the first Scottish local authority to introduce a mandatory licence for dog-walking firms, after complaints of irresponsible behaviour.

Rules contained in the new licence include a requirement to have public liability insurance and to keep all animals under proper control.

There is also a recommendation that no more than eight dogs should be walked at the same time.

Renfrewshire Council is understood to be considering introducing a similar registration system.

Glasgow City Council has said it has "no immediate plans," to introduce a licence, because it operates a tough stance on dog fouling and that all aspects of the Edinburgh licence are covered by existing laws and its own park laws.

However, there is no limit on the number of dogs that firms can take into Glasgow's parks, only that they must be kept under control. And park workers say many are not abiding by this.

Jim Coyle is chairman of Glasgow Local Nature Reserves, which helps manage Dawsholm Park.

He said the problem is putting people off from visiting the park.

He said: "We have no problems with people walking their own dogs.

"The main situation is groups who are taking up to 15 dogs.

"One person cannot control 15 dogs. They are running free, and fouling all over the park.

"The council makes it clear that all dogs must be on a lead or under the control of their owner.

"However, there aren't many rangers left in parks to enforce this.

"The council has said they will speak to the dog-walking companies.

"We would like to set up a list of dog-walking clubs which have complied with rules and regulations, such as not taking more than six dogs at a time. In Edinburgh they now limit the number of dogs.

"Dog-owners have told me they are concerned when they have their own dog on a lead, and are then being approached by a group of 15 dogs. It is quite intimidating.

"There can be three or four vans parked outside at any one time. Some of them are clearly marked and others are just white vans. It can be quite a lucrative business."

Pawsitive Action, a dog-training group based in Lochwinnoch, is working with Renfrewshire Council to set up a similar registration system.

Jacquie Dougan, 48, who runs the group with her partner Tony Gibb, 42, said a regulatory system would benefit everyone, including those who abide by the law.

The couple say "too many times" they have witnessed the back of a van being opened and up to 12 dogs running out and warn pet owners to ensure they ask for proof of insurance, references and experience before handing over a pet to a dog-walker.

Their proposed code of practice includes a mandatory dog-handling assessment for firms.

Jacquie said: "They are in a minority, but we are all being tarred by the same brush.

"A registration system would benefit everyone and could offer peace of mind to dog-owners."

Glasgow City Council said it was committed to tackling the issue of dog fouling in the city's parks.

A spokesman said: "As well as continuing to issue fixed penalty notices to those caught in the act, teams use CCTV and witness statements to issue them retrospectively.

"Irresponsible dog owners who do not clean up after their pets create a disgusting health hazard for Glasgow's residents and visitors.

"We would urge residents to report dog-owners who don't clean up after their pets by calling 0800 027 7027."

caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk