The Hidden Dangers of Dog Waste in Your Yard: Why It’s Crucial to Pick It Up Regularly

The Hidden Dangers of Dog Waste in Your Yard: Why It’s Crucial to Pick It Up Regularly

If you’re a dog owner, you’re likely familiar with the routine: taking your furry friend out into the yard, watching them sniff around, and eventually relieving themselves. It’s a normal part of having a dog, but what comes next is where many pet owners fall short. Dog waste is often left behind, forgotten, or deemed insignificant, but the truth is, leaving dog waste in your yard can have severe consequences—far beyond a simple mess or unpleasant odor. From health risks to environmental hazards, neglecting to clean up after your dog regularly is more dangerous than you might think.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into why dog waste is hazardous, the threats it poses to your yard, your health, and the environment, and the importance of regularly picking up after your dog.

The Myth of “Natural Fertilizer”

One common misconception is that dog waste acts as a form of natural fertilizer, similar to manure from cows or horses. Unfortunately, dog waste is far from beneficial to your lawn or garden. Unlike herbivores whose waste is rich in nutrients, a dog’s diet consists of protein-rich foods that make their waste highly acidic and full of harmful bacteria and parasites. Instead of nourishing your yard, dog waste can actually damage it, creating brown spots where the grass dies or fails to grow.

Moreover, unlike cow manure, dog feces doesn’t break down as quickly and won’t provide any organic benefit to your yard. In fact, dog waste can take months to decompose fully, all the while posing serious risks to anyone who comes into contact with it.

The Health Hazards of Dog Waste

Dog waste isn’t just an eyesore or a smelly inconvenience; it’s also a serious health hazard. One gram of dog feces can contain up to 23 million fecal coliform bacteria. These bacteria, along with other parasites and pathogens, can cause a variety of illnesses in both humans and animals. Let’s take a closer look at the specific health risks:

1. Parasites

Dog waste often contains parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, which can easily be transmitted to humans and other animals. These parasites can enter your body through accidental ingestion, contaminated water, or even through your skin.

  • Roundworms can cause conditions like toxocariasis, which can lead to organ damage and even blindness in severe cases.
  • Hookworms can penetrate the skin, causing an infection known as cutaneous larva migrans, resulting in itchy and painful skin conditions.
  • Tapeworms can infect pets and humans alike, leading to digestive issues and nutrient deficiencies.

Children who play in the yard are particularly vulnerable, as they are more likely to come into contact with contaminated soil or grass.

2. Bacterial Infections

Bacteria found in dog waste, such as E. coli and Salmonella, can also be harmful to human health. Even if you’re careful to avoid direct contact, rain can wash the bacteria from dog waste into water sources or spread it across the yard, increasing the chances of contamination.

  • E. coli can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and even kidney failure in extreme cases.
  • Salmonella infection can lead to symptoms such as fever, nausea, and abdominal pain.

These bacterial infections can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

3. Zoonotic Diseases

Dog waste can also carry zoonotic diseases—illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Some common examples include:

  • Giardiasis, a parasitic infection causing diarrhea, nausea, and dehydration.
  • Campylobacteriosis, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress.
  • Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can cause liver and kidney damage in both humans and pets.

Because many of these diseases can be spread through contaminated soil or water, dog waste left in your yard increases the risk of exposure, particularly for young children or those who regularly spend time outdoors.

Environmental Impact

Beyond the immediate health risks, dog waste also poses a significant environmental threat. Unlike wild animal waste, which is part of a natural ecosystem, domestic dog waste introduces high concentrations of pollutants that can disrupt the environment in harmful ways.

1. Water Contamination

When dog waste is left on the ground, rain can wash it into nearby storm drains, streams, rivers, or lakes. This runoff leads to water pollution and can contribute to the spread of diseases. In fact, dog waste is classified as a significant nonpoint source of water pollution by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Once in the water, the bacteria and parasites from dog waste can contaminate drinking water supplies and lead to harmful algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life. Some of the impacts of water contamination include:

  • Fish kills due to depleted oxygen levels in water.
  • Dangerous swimming conditions for people and pets who may come into contact with contaminated water.
  • Increased costs for water treatment plants as they work to remove harmful bacteria and pathogens.

2. Soil Contamination

When dog waste is left to decompose in your yard, it releases harmful pathogens into the soil. Over time, this can lead to soil contamination, making it unsafe for gardening or landscaping. Contaminated soil can also harbor parasites for long periods, increasing the risk of transmission long after the waste has disappeared from sight.

3. Impact on Local Wildlife

Dog waste left in outdoor spaces like parks or natural reserves can also have a negative impact on local wildlife. The introduction of harmful bacteria and parasites can disrupt ecosystems, while the high nitrogen content of dog waste can alter the soil composition, making it difficult for native plants to thrive.

The Social Responsibility of Picking Up Dog Waste

Aside from the personal and environmental risks, there’s also a social responsibility that comes with dog ownership. Leaving dog waste in your yard or public areas can be unpleasant for neighbors and other community members. It can contribute to foul odors, attract flies and other pests, and create unsanitary conditions for others who may use shared spaces.

Regularly picking up after your dog not only protects the health of your household but also demonstrates consideration for your neighbors and the broader community. In many cities, failing to pick up after your dog can result in fines, reinforcing the importance of maintaining clean, shared environments.

Practical Tips for Managing Dog Waste

Understanding the dangers of dog waste is only half the battle; managing it effectively is the next step. Here are some practical tips for staying on top of pet waste cleanup:

  1. Pick up waste immediately: Don’t let dog waste accumulate. Make it a habit to clean up after your dog every time they relieve themselves, whether in your yard or during a walk.
  2. Use biodegradable bags: Opt for eco-friendly waste bags that break down naturally to reduce plastic pollution.
  3. Install a dog waste station: Consider setting up a designated waste disposal area in your yard with a trash can and scooping tools to make cleanup easy.
  4. Compost pet waste properly: If you’re environmentally conscious, look into safe methods for composting pet waste. Specialized pet waste composters are designed to break down waste in a way that prevents contamination.

Conclusion

While it may seem like a small issue, leaving dog waste in your yard can have far-reaching consequences for your health, the environment, and your community. Picking up after your pet regularly is more than just a courtesy—it’s a crucial step in safeguarding public health, protecting natural ecosystems, and maintaining the well-being of your family and neighbors. With proper cleanup practices, you can enjoy a cleaner yard, healthier surroundings, and the peace of mind that comes from responsible pet ownership.

The ‘Scoop’ on Fall Prep and Pet Waste Cleanup

The ‘Scoop’ on Fall Prep and Pet Waste Cleanup

We still have lots of warm days left in the summer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for those fall days ahead. And it gives you a good reason to get out and enjoy the sunshine.

How do I prep my dog and my yard for the fall?

Preparing your dog and your yard for the fall can help ensure that your pet stays happy and healthy during the upcoming season. Here are some tips to consider:

  1. Groom your dog: As the weather cools down, dogs tend to grow thicker coats. It’s important to regularly groom your dog to remove excess fur and prevent matting. This will help keep your dog comfortable and reduce the risk of skin irritation and infections.
  2. Schedule a vet check-up: The fall season can bring new health risks for your dog, such as allergies and arthritis. Scheduling a check-up with your vet can help catch any potential issues early and ensure your dog stays healthy throughout the season.
  3. Clean up your yard: As the leaves start to fall, it’s important to keep your yard clear of debris that can become hazardous to your pet. Clean up fallen branches or leaves and remove potential hazards, such as sharp objects or toxic plants.
  4. Protect against pests: Fall is also a time when pests such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes become more active. Protect your dog by using flea and tick preventatives and considering mosquito repellents.
  5. Adjust your dog’s diet: As the weather cools down, your dog may require more calories to maintain its body temperature. Consult your vet to see if you should adjust your dog’s diet.

Fall clean-up is a good time to address the accumulation of dog poop in your yard. Here are some tips for cleaning up dog poop in the fall:

  1. Use a pooper scooper: Invest in a good pooper scooper to make the task of cleaning up after your dog easier and more hygienic. Scoop up the poop and dispose of it properly in a sealed bag.
  2. Consider composting: If you have a compost bin, you can add your dog’s poop to it. However, it’s important to do your research first and make sure that your compost bin can handle pet waste without causing any health risks.
  3. Hire a pet waste removal service: If you don’t have the time or inclination to clean up your yard regularly, consider hiring a pet waste removal service like Poop Genie and we will do it for you.
  4. Keep a regular cleaning schedule: It’s important to clean up dog poop regularly to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria and parasites. Aim to clean up at least once a week or more frequently if you have multiple dogs.

By taking these steps, you can keep your yard clean and safe for your pets and family during the fall season.

Doesn’t my dog’s poop just get covered up by the snow in the winter?

While snow can cover up your dog’s poop in the winter, it’s still important to clean it up for several reasons:

1. Environmental impact: When dog poop is left on the ground, it can wash into nearby water sources, such as rivers and lakes, and contribute to water pollution. This can harm aquatic life and make the water unsafe for recreational activities.
2. Health risks: Dog poop can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can survive in the soil for months, even in the winter. These pathogens can make humans and other animals sick if they come into contact with contaminated soil or water.
3. Aesthetics: Letting dog poop accumulate in your yard can create an unpleasant odor and an unsightly appearance, even if it’s covered up by snow.

So, even if it’s more challenging to clean up your dog’s poop in the winter due to snow, it’s still important to do so for the health and safety of your family, pets, and the environment.

Is your yard in need of a cleanup? Choose Poop Genie for easy poop scoop removal. Book your first clean now for a cleaner, healthier outdoor space. Contact us today!

Spring Clean Up for Dogs: The What and Why

Spring Clean Up for Dogs: The What and Why

Picking up your dog’s poop is important for several reasons:

  1. It’s the law: In many areas, failing to pick up after your dog can result in a fine. Local ordinances and regulations may require pet owners to clean up their dog’s waste and dispose of it properly.
  2. It’s a courtesy to others: Nobody likes stepping in dog poop. By picking up after your dog, you’re showing consideration for other people who use the same area, including other dog owners, children, and those who may not be as mobile.
  3. It’s hygienic: Dog feces can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can make people sick. Picking up your dog’s poop helps to prevent the spread of these pathogens.
  4. It’s good for the environment: Dog waste can be a source of pollution, particularly in waterways. Picking up after your dog helps to keep the environment clean and healthy.

What is spring clean up for dogs?

Spring clean up for dogs typically refers to the process of cleaning up your yard or outdoor space after the winter season in preparation for the warmer months ahead. This can involve a variety of tasks related to your dog, such as:

  1. Removing any accumulated dog waste that may have been left over the winter. This is important for maintaining a clean and healthy outdoor space, and for preventing the spread of disease.
  2. Checking the yard for any hazards that may have arisen over the winter, such as broken branches, holes, or other debris. This is important for ensuring that your dog can safely play and explore the outdoor space.
  3. Cleaning and organizing any outdoor dog toys, beds, or other accessories that may have become dirty or damaged over the winter.
  4. Checking and repairing any outdoor fencing or barriers that may have been damaged or become loose over the winter.

Why hire someone to pick up our dog’s poo?

Poop Genie specializes in this service. We offer a range of options, including regular weekly or bi-weekly cleanups, as well as one-time cleanups for special occasions or events.

Hiring a professional poop scooper can be a convenient option for dog owners who don’t have the time or desire to do it themselves, or who may have physical limitations that make it difficult to clean up after their pets. These services can help ensure that your yard or outdoor space stays clean and healthy and can also save you time and effort.

Poop Genie comes with a good reputation, experience, and competitive pricing. You can check out Google Reviews to be sure!

Overall, spring clean up for dogs is an important part of maintaining a clean, safe, and enjoyable outdoor space for your dog. By taking the time to clean and organize your outdoor space, you can help ensure that your dog can enjoy the outdoors to the fullest.

Choose Poop Genie to keep your outdoor space clean and fresh. Ready for a yard cleanup? Book your first service today. Contact us for a quote or to secure your spot!

How Often Should My Dog Poo?

How Often Should My Dog Poo?

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:

  1. Gross, M. (2015). Natural waste: canine companions and the lure of inattentively pooping in public. Environmental Sociology, 1(1), 38-47.
  2. Zhongming, Z., Linong, L., Xiaona, Y., Wangqiang, Z., & Wei, L. (2018). Don’t waste your dog’s poo–compost it.
  3. 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).
4 Reasons Why Dog Poop Cleanup is Important, Adding Dog Waste Removal Service Beneficial Picking up

4 Reasons Why Dog Poop Cleanup is Important, Adding Dog Waste Removal Service Beneficial Picking up

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/

Chesapeake Bay-Dog Waste Runoff

Chesapeake Bay-Dog Waste Runoff

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/

A note to our visitors

This website has updated its privacy policy in compliance with changes to European Union data protection law, for all members globally. We’ve also updated our Privacy Policy to give you more information about your rights and responsibilities with respect to your privacy and personal information. Please read this to review the updates about which cookies we use and what information we collect on our site. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to our updated privacy policy.