Scoop the Poop

April 23-29 is National ‘Scoop the Poop’ Week!

Poop is smelly and unsightly… but did you know leaving it out also poses a number of health risks? Here is why it’s important to pick up poo, even in your own yard. 

There are a TON of diseases found in pet waste.

A sampling of stools left behind at the Clarendon Dog Park revealed Giardia cysts, hookworms, AND roundworms! We see a surprisingly high number of cases of Giardia and other intestinal parasites in this area. This is why we often ask you to bring fecal samples to your appointments. Even in the backyard, these parasites are all very hardy and can persist in the environment for quite a long time.

What’s more: the eggs of parasites are easily picked up by children playing or by you working in the yard. Some larvae can penetrate the skin of bare feet (ewww)… so wear shoes! Protect yourself, your kids, and your pets by picking up poop. 

Pet waste attracts bugs and rodents.

It’s a safe assumption to say we don’t want bugs and rodents infesting our homes. Still on board with having these creatures around? Check out this article from the CDC on rodent control. 

Dog poop can get into your water. 

Say what? That’s right! Poop left in the yard or by the curb goes down storm drains, where it is immediately deposited into area waterways like local streams, rivers, lakes, or the ocean. Not only is this gross, but animal waste also adds nitrogen to the water, which depletes necessary oxygen for underwater grasses, wildlife, and fish. 

So how do you clean up dog poop?

• Carry poop bags when you’re out walking with your dog. 

• Use a poop scoop in the yard. 

• Safely deposit poop in the garbage - biodegradable is best!