Why Dog Owners Should Pick Up Their Dog's Poop
Dog owners should know that curbing their dog (aka picking up their poop) in Houston is actually an ordinance, yet so few dog owners seem to recognize or abide by the rules. Dog poop is not just unsightly; it is also a potential temptation to dogs that have an affinity towards it - as disgusting as that sounds. Listed below are six more reasons why dog poop should be picked up. So the next time you let your dog out in the yard or take him for a walk, remember to bring a bag.
- The Environmental protection Agency (EPA) has classified pet waste (dog poop) as a dangerous pollutant. That means dog poop is as toxic as certain chemical and oils; and that's not just folks jumping on the "green" bandwagon, that classification was made near 20 years ago.
- The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that pet waste (dog poop) can spread parasites - including Salmonella, tapeworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. If you don't believe it, just leave your dog's poop on your lawn for a few days and see how many parasites crawl all over it. And those parasites won't just disappear when the poop does; eggs from the parasites will linger for years - yes years. If you or your dog comes in contact with the soil (e.g. walking in the yard, gardening, or even playing with your dog), there is a risk of infection from those parasite eggs.
- If you think dog poop is a great fertilizer, think again. Dog poop is actually toxic to your lawn. It will burn your grass and cause discoloration.
- Did you know that un-scooped poop from your yard can be washed into storm drains and wind up in far away rivers and streams? Do you really want to be responsible for contaminating your water?
- Dog poop is a team player and likes to get together with harmful bacteria like E.Coli and fecal coliform bacteria which can cause intestinal illness including cramps and diarrhea, and even kidney disorders.
- Last and certainly not least, dog poop can cause blindness. Dog poop contains roundworm larvae which if ingested, can cause blindness in humans. How does that happen? The roundworm larva can migrate through the body causing disease to the kidneys, liver, brain, lungs, eyes and even the heart. So if adults or children touch the infected soil (e.g. dog toys that have come in contact with the roundworm larva), they can become infected. No one wants to become blind because of laziness, so that's just another incentive to be a responsible dog owner.
Published by Bobbi Leder
Bobbi Leder is the author of the picture book, THE SECRET POLICE DOG. Leder has been published with a variety of print and web-based magazines, websites, anthologies, and newspapers. View profile
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The Environmental protection Agency (EPA) has classified pet waste (dog poop) as a dangerous pollutant.
16 Comments
Post a CommentInteresting information.
I had a couple of neighbors in my apartment complex that would let their dogs do their business all over the area by my apartment. Guess who always ended up picking it up? Thankfully, both of them have moved out recently. If they were still here, I would have printed your article and taped it to their doors.
Good information, rt'd
Great article. I have actually asked people I see with dogs who seem not to have a bag if they need one. Oftentimes they will show me the back and sometimes ignore me! or say ok. I HATE that. It ruins having fun for everyone.
Good article. Unfortunately we have a problem in the UK with people letting their dogs mess wherever without being cleared up. Mention it to the owners and get a torrent of abuse in return.
Yep. A lot of people don't realize how unsafe it is to leave it.
It's required in our neighborhood, but still ignored by some.
Sorry, I do not care much for dogs, which is why I especially agree with this article...
Good info. I knew there were reasons- just never knew specificaly what they were. :o)
Good article on the reasons for clearing up behind your dog.