Picking up your dog’s poop can be unpleasant, but there are big reasons we should be cleaning up our dog’s waste. Not only is it required by law in many municipalities, dog poop can have a big impact on the local environment and public health. Not to mention the inconvenience to locals who may accidently step on it.

So why is it important to pick up your dog’s poop? Plus, we have some simple tips for getting the job done.

It may be required by law

In many municipalities it’s the law to clean up after your dog and failure to do so can result in a fine. This can also apply to carrying a bag or pooper scooper with you when taking your dog for a walk. Many parks and public spaces highlight the importance and associated fines with posted signage.

For information on keeping parks and streets poop-free in City of Casey click here.

Dog poop can pollute our water

Dog poop can contaminate waterways and coastal areas through run-off, which can effect our wildlife and potentially make swimmers sick. During a rain storm, dog poop and other contaminants can wash into stormwater drains that can lead to nearby streams, rivers and other water bodies.

Also nutrients released from dog poop can cause excessive growth of algae and weeds, making the water unsuitable for recreational uses.

Dog poop carries diseases

Even if you dog is not showing any symptoms of illness, their waste can still carry bacteria, parasites and viruses that can be harmful to other pets, animals and humans. You don’t have to be in direct contact with their waste either, diseases can be transmitted by flies or other pets that come into contact with it.

Dog poop is NOT a natural fertiliser

This is a common misunderstanding. Dog waste isn’t the same as cow’s manure as they have very different diets; cows primarily eat grass and grain, while dogs typically eat meat. Typically, dog’s waste is highly acidic and contains a lot more nitrogen than cow’s manure. This can burn your grass and result in brown dead spots in your lawn if not picked up.

For the same reason, dog poop should not be placed in your compost bin or used to fertilise your garden. It also contains bacteria that can contaminate your fruits, vegetables and surrounding areas.

Its good manners

Picking up after your dog is common courtesy and part of responsible pet ownership. When dog poop is left lying around, it can quickly pile up to the point that the smell can be overwhelming. There is nothing worse than accidently stepping in dog poop and the process of cleaning it off your shoe. By understanding the impact dog waste can have on the local environment and public health, it’s easy to realise that picking up your dog’s poop is simply the right thing to do.

Tips for cleaning up dog poop

Cleaning up after your dog can be as simple as collecting it in a biodegradable bag and disposing of it in your normal household rubbish bin. We have some extra tips for cleaning your pooches poop.

Pick up promptly – to lessen the impact on the local environment and health of others.
Use biodegradable bags – rather than plastic bags which can have devastating effects on wildlife, ecosystems and soils. Bio-degradable bags are still durable and won’t leak, tear or break. Plus, they break down readily.
Dispose of properly – in your normal household rubbish bin.
Protect your hands – use gloves where possible, such as when collecting from your backyard and wash your hands after scooping your dog’s poop.

Why it’s important to pick up your dog’s poop