An English entrepreneur, Alison Vaughan, has just launched Muksak, a new product to make it easier to clear up dog mess when you're out walking the dog.

I was about to poo poo this idea (sorry). Having been brought up in the countryside, and stepped in countless 'meadow muffins', I find it difficult to understand why so many people seem to get themselves into such a froth about canine offerings. But I suppose it's a question of context, and even I have to agree that people should clear up after their dogs in places where children play, like parks and beaches.

Then I was thinking 'what's wrong with the existing solution to the problem, the plastic poo bag?' Well, I don't have much experience of handling dog mess, but if my 10 month old's nappies are anything to go by, bags are singularly ineffective at containing smells. Besides which, handling faeces through thin plastic is never a particularly enjoyable experience.

So perhaps these things are a good idea after all. In fact, I think I'm going to order one for my wife. For veterinary practices, they could offer quite a good marketing opportunity: brand them with your practice logo, and sell them at cost (or perhaps even below cost). The PR value of all those pet owners out strolling with practice-branded Muksaks would be worth its weight.

For more information please phone Alison Vaughan on 01209 890696 or email alison@muksak.com