By Carol Seeger
Cleaning up after your dog is the right thing to do but many don’t. Here are a few good reasons why everyone should scoop their dog’s poop each time Fido does his business. One gram of dog feces contains millions of fecal bacteria. Transferred through the water system, on shoes and other dogs’ feet, these bacteria can cause many diseases and viruses such as Camplobacteriosis, Salmonellosis, Toxocarisis (or roundworms), Coccidia, Systicerosis (or tapeworms), E. coli, Gardia, and Parvo.
Dog feces are a cause of water pollution. Urban waste water systems are not designed to filter the bacteria and pathogens left behind when fecal matter seeps into the soil and eventually ends up in the water supply.
Flies and other insects eat feces and lay eggs on fecal matter. Flies then come into homes, land on outside dining areas or outdoor pet food and water containers, and more bacteria is transferred to pets and humans. Pet feces are one of the most hospitable egg-laying hosts in an eco-system.
Most municipalities, including the City of Atlanta, have laws requiring dog owners and caregivers to clean up after their dog.
Responsible dog ownership includes providing adequate food, water, medical attention, training, companionship, and keeping your dog, as well as other dogs, safe. Cleaning up after your dog is the responsible thing to do. Your neighbors will appreciate your efforts.
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