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Dogs can be special companions and an important part of our lives. More than half of households in America own at least 1 dog (~54%). That adds up to about 108 million dogs as pets in the United States! Unfortunately, that also adds up to about 248lbs. of waste per year for each dog.
No one likes stepping in dog poop, but there are bigger problems than dirty sneakers. According to the EPA, dog poop is as toxic to the environment as a chemical or oil spill. Not only that, but dog waste contains and attracts disease-causing organisms that can be transmitted to wildlife, pets, and humans. Fecal coliform bacteria (such as E.coli), salmonella, roundworms, and giardia are a few well known pathogens. |
When animal waste gets into water, aside from containing potential pathogens, it will release excess nutrients as it breaks down. Too many nutrients can lead to excess algae growth and deplete the oxygen available to aquatic life.
There are three things you can do to prevent pet waste from entering our local streams.
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Resources
For more information, check out the resources below or visit your local Soil & Water Conservation District.
The Scoop on Poop: Pet Waste Issues - University of Kentucky
Pet Waste Disposal Systems Help Protect Water Quality - U.S. Department of Agriculture
Seasonal Stormwater Series: Pet Waste - Hamilton County Conservation District
Take the pledge, bag the doo! - University of Kentucky
The Scoop on Poop: Pet Waste Issues - University of Kentucky
Pet Waste Disposal Systems Help Protect Water Quality - U.S. Department of Agriculture
Seasonal Stormwater Series: Pet Waste - Hamilton County Conservation District
Take the pledge, bag the doo! - University of Kentucky