BBC News, South West
BBCA litter-picking “obsessed” labrador spends his daily walks helping to clear the sea of plastic.
Four-year-old Logie has been trained by his owners to collect bottles, drinks cans and other pieces of waste around Plymouth.
The environmentally-minded dog “actively searches for litter” on land and in the sea.
Co-owner James Westgate, who is an ecologist, said he and Logie were “a match made in heaven” and it was “hugely satisfying” being able to help keep the area clean.
Mr Westgate said Logie began picking up litter as a puppy, and he realised the behaviour could be nurtured after the dog retrieved a plastic bottle from the sea.
“Logie picks up anything you ask him to – anything from a Pringles can to a traffic cone he’s retrieved from the sea,” he said.
“We’re down by the water every single day and seeing the litter really breaks my heart – knowing the plastic pollution is going to end up in the deep sea, it’s going to sink to the bottom of the ocean and turn into microplastics over time.
“Retrieving one bit of litter is a hugely satisfying thing but getting Logie to just go around the entire quay and sweep the whole place for litter is fabulous, we can finish our walk with bundles of trash which we then put into recycling or in the bin,” he said.
Mr Westgate added Logie was “incredibly loyal and intelligent”.
“He’s obsessed with picking up litter and I really care about the environment, so it’s a win-win really,” he said.
Known as Litter Logie, his owner shares his daily achievements on an Instagram page.
Co-owner Louise Henry, who is also an ecologist, said: “I think it’s good to spread the message of the environment being an important thing to protect.
“We live in Plymouth and it’s one of the most amazing environments.
“He’s a symbol for good deeds and hope, and it’s just quite inspiring.”
