Having a pet dog is a wonderful thing, but it comes with responsibilities.
Having a pet dog is a wonderful thing, but it comes with responsibilities. One of these is to pick up its excrement every day. This task is by no means enjoyable, but it is well worth doing. There are multiple reasons why you must clean up after your pet, which we will discuss below during this year’s International Pooper Scooper Week.
International Pooper Scooper Week
International Pooper Scooper Week brings awareness to pet owners of the dangers of leaving dog poop in the yard or street. The Association of Professional Animal Waste Specialists (aPaws) established this week-long awareness event in 2008. With millions of pet dogs in the United States alone, Americans have millions of pounds of dog waste to manage.
Why Clean up After Your Pet
Dog Poop Kills Grass
Cow manure might help plants grow with their plant-based composition, but it is not so with protein-rich dog feces. Canine waste doesn’t break down easily, and its acidity sears grass and plants. You don’t want this product in your garden bed or lawn!
It Contains Dangerous Bacteria & Parasites
Even if your dog is not sick, do not trust that it doesn’t contain harmful bacteria and possibly parasites. Exposure to bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella, or worms is dangerous to the health of children, gardeners, other pets, and so on.
It Will Contaminate the Water
One should recognize that whatever contaminants you leave outside will eventually leach into local waterways. Rain will wash chemicals, bacteria, etc., into the nearest storm drain, which flows into local streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay (in Maryland.) Some drinking water plants source their water from these local bodies of water.
It Creates a Rodent Problem
Does dog poop attract rats? Yes, rats and mice will come for the dog poop if it is left behind. If it is a regular habit, don’t be surprised to find a rodent colony near you carrying even more germs.
Cleaning up Is Common Courtesy
No one wants to see poop on the sidewalk as they take their afternoon stroll or morning jog, let alone smell it. It is common courtesy to keep the streets clean. When you clean up after your pet, you make the neighborhood a better place.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!