For the safety of ALL players Stevenage Town RFC, have a rule that means NO DOGS (except guide dogs) are allowed within the North Road grounds.
The rule exists because of the potential for the dog excrement to be carrying nasty bugs which can cause blindness amongst players of all ages, but particularly amongst the children in the junior section.
Even if dog owners clear up after them it is highly likely that a residue will be left causing the same issue, so we have to adopt a zero tolerance policy.

Please respect this rule and don’t bring dogs onto the grounds.

Those found ignoring this rule will be escorted from the premises with their dogs.

FACTS
DANGERS OF DOG MESS

Dog faeces is as high as 3rd on the list of contributors to
contaminated land and water.
On average, dogs do a number two twice per day which adds up to about 14 piles of
poo in just one week, per dog. Contrary to popular belief, dog
faeces is not fertilizer and does not provide any benefit to the
soil.

So whats in it?

Dog faeces may contain Toxocariasis, parvovirus, whipworms, hookworms, roundworms,
threadworms, campylobacteriosis, giardia, and coccidia.
These parasites will contaminate the water, soil, and
can even cause infection in both pets and humans (especially
children). The microscopic Hookworm larvae can be passed to another
pet or person directly through the skin or by accidental ingestion
as can other bacteria.

Which parasites can humans acquire?

Yes, humans are capable of contracting Toxocariasis, hookworms, tapeworms,
threadworms and campylobacteriosis. This is the most significant
reason to avoid allowing dogs (especially puppies) to like your
face and mouth - affectionately known as "puppy kisses". If a dog
has recently eaten faeces or attempted to groom their hind quarters
and come into contact with this infectious material, there is a
chance the parasites will be passed directly into your mouth.
Children are especially venerable to infection because they tend to
enjoy playing in the dirt, where parasites such as hookworm larvae
lay dormant waiting for a new host. Young children may also put
dirty hands, balls or toys in their mouth, further increasing the chance
for infectious material consumption.