THE VALE of Glamorgan Council is trying to collar youngsters as part of its bid to promote responsible dog ownership.

As part of a partnership initiative between the Council's environmental health team and voluntary organisation 'Pets as Therapy,' talks and displays are being planned in primary schools across the area.

Eager that children should know all the facts about dog ownership and potential problems, including fouling, it is hoped they will pass on the information to family and friends to create healthier, cleaner and safer communities.

Stressing that it is not trying to deter dog ownership, but targeting the minority of irresponsible owners, the Council has introduced new legislation covering areas where dogs need to be on leads and the necessity for owners to remove faeces.

The schools' programme opened at Barry Island primary where dog warden Caroline Cowan and environmental health officer Leah Ward were joined by Tracie Wooldridge, from "Pets as Therapy," and her bull mastiff Stella.

Pupils at Cadoxton infants' and Jenner Park primary will also be involved in the early stages of the initiative.