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Let’s Talk About Picking Up Dog Poop!
Did you know that World Environment Day comes around every year on June 5th? It’s a fantastic global initiative that aims to boost awareness and inspire action to protect our lovely planet. This day gives us all a chance to chat about and put into action sustainable practices that can help safeguard our planet for the generations to come. One practice that might not be on your radar, but can make a huge difference, is picking up dog poop.
You might giggle, but it’s true! If we leave our furry friends’ poop lying around, it can contribute to environmental pollution. Despite what you might think, dog poop is not a natural fertilizer. It actually contains harmful bacteria and parasites that can seep into the ground and pollute our water sources. These nasty pathogens can harm both our environment and the health of us humans and other animals. According to Snohomish County’s Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, in Snohomish County alone, our dogs produce more than 63 tons of poop every day! That’s the same weight as 31.5 average-sized cars. Can you believe it?
What’s more, dog poop emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas that’s contributing to climate change. When you think about the millions of dogs around the world, the buildup of their waste, if we don’t manage it properly, could have significant environmental consequences.
How you can help
- Always bring biodegradable waste bags along when you’re out and about with your pet.
- Be sure to pick up your dog’s waste. You can use a plastic bag, a poop scoop, or disposable gloves. Don’t forget to wash your hands afterward.
- Place the waste inside the bag and securely seal it before tossing it in the garbage.
- Avoid flushing dog poop in septic systems and sewer systems. These are made for human waste only.
- Regularly clean up after your dog in your yard — especially if your little ones play there.
By simply picking up your dog’s poop, you’re not just keeping your local community clean but also taking a valuable step towards preserving our environment. When it comes to sustainability, every single action, no matter how small, counts.
This World Environment Day, let’s all promise to do our bit to protect our beautiful planet. Even the simple act of cleaning up after our pets can make a world of difference. Always remember, the well-being of our environment directly affects our own health. So, let’s take care of it together, one poop scoop at a time.
Check Out These Cool Resources!
- Safe Pet Waste Disposal Methods & Frequently Asked Questions
- When your dog goes on the lawn, remember it doesn’t just go on the lawn.
- The Poop Toss Game!
- Scooppoop.org