by Poop Genie | Jan 13, 2023 | Tips for Dogs
Ain’t dogs more loyal than humans? Amongst all the animals, dogs are man’s best friend. They are always there to greet us when we return back home after a tiring day. They want to play and cuddle with us and most of all go outside and also enjoy going for long walks with their masters.
It is essential not only in winter but all year round to make sure that we take our dogs for walks and give them enough exercise. They are required to walk in order to maintain their health and just like us, their mental wellness. But in winter, it can be difficult for dogs to walk on the ice or snow, or even be in the cold weather for long periods of time.
You should be careful of the environment you decide to walk in and make sure that you are not walking them in areas where they might get hurt. Find cleared-off paths, or easily accessible walkways to ensure neither of you finds yourself slipping or falling. Anything below 32°F is safe but once you get below 20°F be aware that dogs could potentially develop hypothermia and frostbite.
As all of us suffer from cold during winter, so do the dogs. Taking your dog for a walk and to their toileting spot can be very difficult due to the low temperatures. Pick up the poo can be even worse! (But hey that’s why we exist…Request A Quote.)
We have some winter walking weather tips for you and your dog to make sure everyone stays safe and healthy.
- Bring water and snacks with you when going out during the colder months too, as they will need extra fluid intake because they cannot regulate their own body temperature much below 39°F (4°C) We found a great solution from YOGI Pet. This Portable dog water bottle is made of high-quality food-grade plastic, BPA-free, and lead-free. With this bottle, your pets are able to eat and drink anytime, anywhere. Enjoy happy outdoor time with your pet.
- Dress up in a coat or sweater to ensure you take the edge off. You need a coat so why don’t they? They can act as heat insulators as well as break the chilly wind that comes with that winter weather some days. An amazing company is called Puppy Protection a clothing company for dogs that has plenty of selection and choices. they also have a 10% off offer for first-time buyers and a great sale selection as well. Keep your dog styling and safe as you hit the paths in those colder winter months.
- Wear Booties to protect their paws and stay safe on the icy paths. first things first, the fit is super important. Boots should be comfortable and not too tight. And, of course, they need to actually stay on. You may have to try many pairs on your dog to find a good fit so be sure to bring your dog with you or ensure you can return them. A great brand is called Muttluks which offers several different varieties and options in color and style. If your dog will not wear boots another option is Paw Balm which is a waxy product that protects their paws from the cold and is an alternative to booties.
The following are some general tips to keep in mind before walking your dog during the winter:
- Keep your dog on a leash and under control at all times – if they are off leash and get scared or spooked and run off, the cold weather could cause potentially dangerous situations for them.
- Make sure that YOU are wearing warm clothes, boots, and gloves before taking your dog out for a walk, your dog needs you safe and healthy as well so be sure to take care of yourself before heading outside.
- Use a harness instead of a collar so that if your dog does slip on ice, he will not choke himself.
- Try to avoid walking in areas where there is ice or snow as these surfaces can be dangerous for both you and your pet.
- If possible, walk mid-morning or mid-day when it is the warmest and brightest.
The winter season is a great time to take your dog for a walk. The smell of a brisk winter day and the energy you use to walk in the colder weather is amazing for both you and your dog physically and mentally. Walking is known to decrease stress, calm your mind and get your heart rate up, all good things. When you are a healthy person you are a healthy pet owner. You can enjoy the outdoors, stay healthy mentally and physically, AND have some quality time with your pet
We hope our Winter Dog Walking Tips and product suggestions have been helpful for this time of year. The health of dogs and owners alike is of the utmost importance any time of year but the winter can be the most harmful. Have quality time together while maintaining health and wellness for you both!
by Poop Genie | Nov 10, 2022 | Dog Poop
The regularity of a dog’s stool can vary depending on many factors. Younger dogs tend to have more bowel movements, while older dogs have fewer. Below is a rough guide, but it’s important to remember that frequency alone rarely provides the full picture, and consistency must also be considered.
Occasional extra or missed bowel movements are usually nothing to worry about. Several factors can affect your dog’s habits, including his diet, how often he eats, getting extra treats, picking up litter, amount of exercise, and stress.
However, it’s important to consider the consistency of your dog’s poop when picking it up, as it could be a symptom of other problems. 2
How often should my dog poo?
For most adult dogs, the average is 1 to 3 poops per day. If your dog has more frequent bowel movements but has been having frequent bowel movements, it may not be a cause for concern. If your dog’s movements suddenly become more frequent, see your veterinarian right away.
The key here is that most adult dogs should have a bowel movement at least once a day, and at a fairly regular time. Maybe you eat it once a day, or three times a day, and that’s fine. If your dog doesn’t have a bowel movement or diarrhea within 24 hours but seems otherwise fine, there’s probably nothing to worry about. However, if you suddenly start urinating more than once a day for several days in a row, or have no bowel movements at all for more than 48 hours, you should investigate possible changes in the cause.
The frequency of your dog’s bowel movements should be consistent throughout the day whether it’s once or four times a day. As long as it’s the same every day, don’t worry.
Which factors tell your pup poop is healthy?
Older dogs must poop about one or three times per day, while puppies poop more frequently (approximately four times per day or more) and senior dogs could only poop once each day. Numerous factors determine your pet’s poop frequency.
Check for color, content, consistency, size, shape, and even smell. And try to keep track of how often your dog poops. If anything worries you right away, or if you notice other signs that your dog is unwell, call your veterinarian.
After eating how much time does a dog take to poop?
Many dogs require 8-12 hours to completely digest a meal. A smaller meal will also be digested quicker by your dog as compared to a solid meal. As such, unless you nourish your dog twice a day, they will most probably have to poop twice a day.
Pet owners should plan walks after meals because most dogs poop 30 minutes after eating. The volume of the food is important; relatively small meals digest faster, in contrast to bigger food. So if your dog eats multiple times a day instead of one massive meal, they may have to poop earlier. 1
When You Should Be Worried About Your Dog’s Poop Routine?
Additional poop or skipped poop is usually not a cause for concern. Numerous factors determine your dog’s excretion habits, such as diet, frequency of eating, additional snacks, waste plundering, and amount of exercise. Any deviation from the normal routine that lasts more than a day or two should be investigated. One should pay attention to the dog’s poop if they are not cleaning of dog poo themselves. 3
Conclusion
Poop is an unpleasant task that many people have to deal with daily. At Poop Genie we scoop your dog’s poop so you don’t have to! Contact us today to book our services for 1 dog or more, weekly or monthly, our service plans meet your doggie’s pooping schedule needs!
References:
- Gross, M. (2015). Natural waste: canine companions and the lure of inattentively pooping in public. Environmental Sociology, 1(1), 38-47.
- Zhongming, Z., Linong, L., Xiaona, Y., Wangqiang, Z., & Wei, L. (2018). Don’t waste your dog’s poo–compost it.
- Nacapunchai, D., & Dekumyoy, P. (2019, November). HAND CREEPING ERUPTION DUE TO DOG POOP PICKUP WITH PAPER TOWEL. In INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH CONFERENCE IN BELGIUM 2019 (pp. 185-189).
by Poop Genie | Jun 25, 2022 | Dog Poop
Picking up dog’s poop might be a little daunting for you. Have you ever thought of what it will do to the environment you’re living in if you do not remove your dog’s poop? The idea of skipping or not scooping at all might be tempting, but you need to understand that it goes against sustainability practices and has detrimental effects to the environment. By not scooping your dog’s poop, you are risking future generations and destroying the planet we live on.
According to a LA Times report, 38% of people are reluctant about removing their pet’s waste. Below are some solid and logical reasons to persuade you to pick up your dog’s waste.
1. It Affects Our Waterways
If you take your dog on a walk and he pooped in the bushes or road, you might not care about it and move along. But when rainfall comes, it will be carried to water tributaries through the drainage system, resulting in dog waste pollution. Also, you might face the same situation taking a stroll on the beach or possibly just outside your home in your very own backyard.
The bottom line is that if you are not disposing of your dog’s waste in an ethical way, you are contributing to high fecal matter counts in the water table around us. According to research, 30% of bacteria in the water are caused by pet waste. Just think of the unsanitary water and conditions when your kids go for a swim or use water for other purposes. It will only lead to contaminated water or eventually severe illness.
Water with high amounts of waste also becomes unusable for the local communities and water-living organisms. Also, these areas close down boating, fishing, and swimming completely. Sometimes, there is a growth of algae and weeds in such water, called algal blooms, making it entirely polluted and unusable.
2. It Contains Unhealthy Bacteria and Parasites
Dog poop can lead to transmitting diseases in humans, either from bacteria or parasites. The infections transmitted from bacteria include:
- Yersiniosis is a disease that leads to infection in the human intestines. Its risk increases if present in water.
- E. Coli infections are most common in people having a weak immune system. It can cause fever, nausea, stomach cramps, and can lead to death.
- Salmonellosis can also transfer due to dog poop and lead to headaches, diarrhea, muscle aches, and fever.
The infections transmitted from parasites include:
- Roundworm, which can cause blindness, and it can be transmitted through dog waste.
- Tapeworms may cause infection because of the same reason. In humans, they can stick to the intestine and absorb nutrients.
- Cyclospora infection may also be caused due to dog poop causing illness in human beings.
- Cryptosporidium and Giardia parasites transmitted through the dog fecal matter can cause intestinal disease in humans.
As shown above, if dog poop removal is not done effectively, it can lead to several health hazards in humans. These bacteria and parasites are easily preventable with proper poop scooping methods.
3. Poop Scooping Is A LAW
In some areas, dog poop cleanup is termed as a LAW. It is most certainly a moral and ethical responsibility to pick up your dog’s poop from public areas or your home. The law is referred to as the “Pooper Scooper Law.” It says that if the dog owners do not pick up the fecal matter, they will be fined. A park in Madrid, Spain might mail it back to you if you don’t clean it up as per the Washington Post.
Such a situation does not prevail in all areas, but it always helps to be a good member of the community and clean up after your pet. The smell is quite overwhelming, and it will cause restlessness for several neighbors. Not to mention the environmental impacts associated with no cleanup at all.
4. Dog Poop Is NOT Fertilizer
If you think that the dog’s poop will act as Fertilizer like a cow’s manure, you are wrong. The diet of dogs is usually high in protein; hence their effect is opposite to Fertilizer. Dog fecal matter is highly acidic, having nitrogen and phosphorus in it. It is harmful to lawn grass and can destroy any vegetables if grown (because of bacteria).
It Is A Pollutant
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) describes dog fecal matter as a pollutant. It is because of two factors: pathogens and nutrients. When runoff moves into the water, the pathogens can encounter humans, causing illness. Nutrients can also cause contamination of water bodies and algal blooms in water. The water is deemed unuseable afterward.
Some Tips Regarding Dog Poop Clean Up
Cleaning the poop of your dog is your responsibility as a pet owner. Here are some tips you can follow when it comes to dog poop removal:
- Use A Waste Bag While Moving Outside
When you take your dog on a walk, carry a poop bag with you. It will prevent you and other people from the hassle of the stinky smell, all while protecting the environment. Also, make sure that the bag is biodegradable. The bags made from plastic are not eco-friendly and have devastating effects on the environment due to slow decomposition.
- Use Nutrient-Rich Dog Food
High-quality dog food will help your dog to ingest more and eliminate less. So, make sure that it’s nutrient-rich and balanced in terms of your dog’s dietary requirements. Consult with your local Veterinarian to find a brand that will work for your dog.
- Do Not Let Your Dog Poop Near Water
While moving outside, don’t let your dog poop near water. It will have hazardous effects on the water affecting marine life and water quality. The water will not be able to continue its renewable cycle, resulting in fecal pollution.
Also, make sure to house-train your dog to prevent any mishaps in public places. A trained dog should help eliminate putting you in any sticky situations.
- Use Dog Waste Removal Service
If poop removing is something you’re not into, choose professional dog poop scooper services to take care of this matter. Poop Genie is the best option in this regard. There are several packages available depending on your budget, with scheduled visits for protecting your pets and family.
Convenience and communication are also front of mind as Poop Genie offers text message services a day before their visit. This helps you keep needed gates open and aggressive dogs inside as they scoop. Rest assured, they are top-notch.
In Conclusion
Not scooping your dog poop is detrimental to the environment, your family, and your pets. This chore might be irritating for you but is essential to continue being a good steward of the environment and communities around us. You can hire dog waste removal services like Poop Genie in this regard. Learn to know more about us. Whatever you do, make sure that you are playing your part in sustaining this wonderful planet we call Earth.
References:
https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-oe-lewis-dogs-environmentalism-20141102-story.html
http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/science/2002-06-07-dog-usat.htm
https://cfpub.epa.gov/npstbx/files/Pet%20care%20fact%20sheet.pdf
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/animalia/wp/2016/04/27/madrid-is-the-latest-city-to-fight-a-dog-poop-epidemic-that-just-wont-go-away/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.4f11d7923cd1
https://www.poopgenie.com/
by Poop Genie | Jun 25, 2022 | Dog Poop
Chesapeake Bay is the most productive estuary in the United States, with more than 3,600 species of plants. But some of its major tributaries are getting polluted over time. Dog waste with a high amount of Nitrogen and Phosphorus is a leading source of it. Research indicates that only 1 gram of dog fecal matter has 23 million fecal coliform bacteria.
Though all the fecal matter doesn’t reach the surface water, one that is not appropriately scooped can run off into the watershed. In turn, it will disturb the natural composition of water leading to water pollution.
Dog Waste in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
The Chesapeake Bay and its several waterways are referred to as “impaired” by the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The same, pollution due to multiple factors, with pet and agriculture waste on top. The dog waste, either from your home garden, hike trails, or park, is also a part of this unsustainable practice.
It was estimated that a dog produces 0.75 lbs of waste in a day. Remember that 36% of United States houses have dogs in them. So, think about the waste. The one that is not cleaned up correctly leads to severe risks for humans and aquatic life.
Consequences Of Dog Fecal Runoff
The poop contains fecal bacteria and a high amount of Nitrogen and Phosphorus. This can pose significant risks to aquatic life and water quality. The runoff also affects the beaches, landscape of the bay, and watershed by:
Endangerment Of Marine Life
The dirt of dog waste runoff water settles on the top layer of water and blocks sunlight from reaching the ground. In this case, the plants at the bottom are unable to make food through photosynthesis. Some herbivores dependent on the plants also suffer because of the polluted addition to water. Also, the homes of oysters and other marine animals are damaged.
Effects On Water Quality
The runoff affects the quality of water, making it muddier. Also, there is a change in the nutrient concentration of water with the addition of bacteria. It makes water polluted and unable to use and sometimes the water can be treated which takes time, is exhaustive, and expensive.
Landscape Change
The depth of the stream can be altered due to runoff. The watershed is reshaped while losing its stability, which affects the banks of the stream.
Algal Bloom
The nutrient increase may lead to the high growth of algae in the water. With a quick multiplication in numbers, they form blooms. It blocks the sunlight and prevents the oxygen from reaching the water. Hence, killing the aquatic animals due to oxygen depletion. Also, the secretions make the water harmful to use for recreational or drinking purposes.
These consequences also indicate the importance of poop scooping. The proper waste removal can cause a significant decrease in these issues, thus serving the environment and promoting sustainable living.
Diseases From Dog Feces – Associated Health Risks
The waste material of dogs can cause several risks for humans. These include:
Intestinal Diseases Due To Bacteria And Viruses
The presence of bacteria and viruses in dog poop can cause intestinal diseases in humans. It might be due to direct contact or transmission through water. If you drink or ingest the contaminated water, it may lead to health issues due to the following micro-organisms.
- Leptospira – This is a spirochete that can affect the mucosal surfaces, including the mouth, eye, and vagina. It causes severe infection in humans with musculoskeletal pain, diarrhea, headache, and vomiting as its main symptoms.
- E.Coli – It is a gram-negative bacterium that causes yersiniosis in humans. It impacts the mucosal surface of the intestine with symptoms of appendicitis.
- Salmonella – It is a gram-negative bacteria that affects the large intestine. It may lead to diseases including gastroenteritis, bacteremia, enteric fever, and osteomyelitis.
- Noroviruses – It is a virus causing epidemic gastroenteritis in humans. It transmits through water in humans and causes gastrointestinal tract issues.
- Cryptosporidium and Giardia – These are parasites that can transfer to humans via infected water. It can lead to beaver fever and cryptosporidiosis in humans.
- Campylobacter – It is a bacteria that can cause Campylobacteriosis in humans. The symptoms include cramping, pain in the abdominal region, fever, and diarrhea.
- Cyclospora – It is an infection caused by parasites carried by water contaminated from a dog’s feces. It can lead to gastrointestinal issues in humans.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
The research indicates that dog waste is also high in bacteria that are resistant to various antibiotics. If transmitted to humans via water or any other source, they can cause severe illness which can’t be treated easily. The urban environment can become contaminated, leading to a public health hazard.
Contamination Of Ground Water Drinking Supplies
The contamination of surface water also affects the groundwater of an area. It will be a hazard for areas or communities that entirely rely on groundwater for living. Also, it can lead to any disease outbreak making the situation a health risk.
Food Safety Issues
Pathogens in water can also affect the food security of vegetables or plants grown in the garden. This affects public health due to exposure to contaminated water with growing plants, trees, and even food sources like fruits and vegetables.
What Can You Do?
From your side, proper disposal of your pet’s waste would be sufficient. You might have a lot of reasons to deny it. For example, “It’s smelly and not possible for me.” “It’ll dispose on its own.”, But trust us, none of these excuses is going to work when it comes to risks associated with improper cleanup.
So, if poop scooping is an unpleasant task for you, look for a dog waste removal service. Poop Genie can be a good one in this regard. This waste management company will aid in protecting you, your family, and the environment by proper disposal of waste. Learn to know more about this waste management company.
Be a Chesapeake Bay Retriever – Scoop Your Dog’s Poop
In the end, we’d like to say that you can contribute to preventing the further degradation of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. It’s not only about you. It’s about the future generations and protecting our Earth. Do your part to ensure a sustainable future for your generation and the next.
Keywords:
Chesapeake Bay Watershed, algal blooms, diseases from dog feces, bacteria
References:
http://chesapeakestormwater.net/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2017/08/Pet-Waste-Report_final-1.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3564131/#:~:text=Bacteria%20that%20are%20pathogens%20for,as%20Toxocara%20canis%20%5B6%5D.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5319273/
by Poop Genie | Jun 25, 2022 | Blogs
Get some treats and toys for your furry friend! Subscription packages are good in many regards; usually you are searching for either clothing, toys, or something to chew on. Your dog might bark with excitement at the arrival of a mail carrier. It’s a great idea to keep your canine companion entertained, refreshed, and stuffed with new toys.
Here are some ideas for you to treat your pet with subscription packages.
1. Toy Subscription Package – Pet Treater Dog Box
This subscription box features excellent and safe toys for your dog. With stuffed toys, squeakers, and other selected pieces, they serve high-quality toys your pet can enjoy. The brand passes all the safety tests ensuring your dog’s safety while playing.
Also, there are no toys with pointy edges or small additional items leading to choking hazards. The material of the toys is also great for preventing toxicity issues. Give them a try to get quality toys for your dog. Their website can be found here: https://www.pettreater.com.
2. Food Subscription Package – Myollie
Serving your dog with a healthy diet that meets all the nutritional requirements is very easy now. My-Ollie food subscription packages serve the best in nutrition for your pet. They make customized dog food after analyzing your dog’s age, breed, allergies, activity level, and weight.
Also, there are four different flavors available for your canine companion, and you can try them on alternative days. The ingredient choice is also healthy with less involvement in processing, artificial flavors, and fillers. The minimal processing prevents the loss of nutrients.
The plant-based proteins and other perks ensure you a boost in the health of your dog. Also, the method of ordering is quite simple. You need to submit your dog’s requirements and then wait for your parcel to ship. You can try this human-grade, nutrient-rich dog food for the healthy life of your canine companion. Information on My-Ollie can be found here: https://www.myollie.com.
3. Chewers Subscription Package – Bullymake
If your dog is an aggressive chewer, you might be worried about the toys that your dog rips apart in a few seconds. This subscription is a solution to the chewing debacle. But if an accident happens, the company will send you a replacement toy by checking the picture of the previous one.
This rarely happens because of sturdy and durable chewing toys. Apart from chewing toys, there are healthy treats in your box. You can feed them between meals or while playing a game. Also, you can reward treats to your dog for success during obedience training.
The subscription package is available in monthly, 2-month, 6-month, and annual plans. The number of toys and treats also varies accordingly. The box is a bit expensive as compared to others but is worth the price. It’ll add more to the experience for your dog. Bullymake’s website is here: https://www.bullymake.com.
4. Dental Health Subscription Package – Bark Bright
Dental hygiene is an essential practice pet owners should focus on.
The plaque built on teeth for an extended period can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues in your dog.
The foul smell will irritate you during cuddling and playtime.
In the long run, periodontal disease and oral infections can lead to toxin exposure in their blood, further affecting the heart and liver of your dog.
Brushing is a good decision in this regard and is always suggested. But you can also try a Bark Bright subscription box if your dog does not like brushing. The subscription package is designed for maintaining the dental health of your dog.
Their subscription box contains dental sticks supplied for 30 days with triple enzyme dental gel. It helps to keep their teeth free from bacteria. You need to add gel to sticks and plaque, and dirt from your dog’s teeth will be removed through the chewing process. Through this subscription box, you can maintain your dog’s oral health, preventing diseases in the long run. Get your dog some Bark Bright here: https://www.barkbox.com/brightdental.
5. Dog Waste Removal Subscription Package – Poop Genie
Poop scooping is a thing which most pet owners are reluctant to do. The reason might be a smell, inconvenience, or lack of knowledge. All, below are some reasons a poop scooping service may be right for you and your pet.
Dog waste is hazardous to the dog’s health, human health, and the environment. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can be transmitted to humans through direct contact and water, leading to diseases.
Recent studies indicate the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in waste which are harder to eliminate.
The decomposition of waste is also tricky. Due to high protein foods, it is not like cow’s waste which can be used as manure.
Dog waste runoff into into major waterways destroys aquatic habitat by causing algal blooms.
Poop genie is the best dog poop scooping service around. With different packages, you can choose an affordable one of your choice. Also, their scheduled visits with proper communication will provide you with a sense of satisfaction about cleaning your lawn. You can use their services at your appropriate time just by contacting them. Do your part by removing pet waste, and keeping your dog’s lawn eco-friendly through sustainable practices. Poop Genie’s website is: https://www.poopgenie.com.
6. Clothing Subscription Package – Dapper Dog Box
For your dog’s clothing on special occasions like birthdays, a dapper dog box will be a good go-to. You can maintain your dog’s look and make sure that he/she is the most well-dressed dog in town. Also, there are treats and toys included adding more to your dog’s experience.
A trendy bandana and clothing for your dog will be customized according to your dog’s height, weight, and dimensions. Also, you can easily skip for a month or more when you don’t need the clothing. That’s a plus point of the package in terms of convenience. Dapper Dog box can be found here: https://www.thedapperdogbox.com.
Wrapping Up
We hope you can enjoy some of these dog subscription packages. As a pet owner, it is good to focus on basic needs like dental hygiene and poop scooping instead of fancy-looking toys. Have fun with your subscriptions!
References:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/keep-dog-teeth-clean/
https://www.thesprucepets.com/best-dog-subscription-boxes-4844308
https://www.poopgenie.com/
