T
here are multiple diseases that can be spread through your dog’s feces. Giardia,
E.coli and salmonella can all be contracted by humans as well as other pets. Viruses such as coronavirus or parvovirus, which can be extremely harmful to other pets, can be transmitted through contaminated pet waste. Parasites such as roundworm and hookworm are able to live in soil for long periods of time as well. By not picking up after your pet, this is inviting the presence of these harmful parasites that are transmitted through the contaminated waste.
As we all know, dogs are called man’s best friend. But for those who are affected by the issues that come with living in a dog-friendly community; they may disagree.
Throughout many communities, the most prevalent issue is residents not picking up after their pets. On a nice day, you may want to go for a walk with your furry friend through the common areas. While on your walk past Mrs. Smith’s unit, your pet decides it would be a perfect spot to take a bathroom break. You then realize you have left your pet waste bags back in your own unit a few buildings down. “What’s the harm in not picking up this one pile of pet waste?” you ask yourself. There are many reasons why you should pick up after your pet, and here are a few...
A single rain shower can easily make the pet waste travel into local waterways. Contaminated waterways are harmful to the surrounding environment by adding too much nitrogen in the water; this is known as nutrient pollution. This can affect local wildlife as well as continue to spread disease. The United States Environmental Agency advises that pet owners pick up the waste to reduce the risk of nutrient pollution.
Although we love our furry companions, we are inviting other creatures to the area as well by not picking up after them. Rats, mice and other common rodents are attracted to the pet waste. Excessive amounts of pet waste can increase the chances of these small critters coming onto the property. This also increases the chance of these critters entering your home due to the high volume present in one area.
Believe it or not, picking up after your pet is also a local law in most suburban areas. While it may not be federal law, you can receive a citation if you are seen not picking up after your pet by a local police officer. Some associations may also have it as a part of their Rules and Regulations to pick up after your pet and may issue a fine to those found in violation of this rule.
Last but not least, it is courteous to those residents around you to pick up after your pet. When living in a community, it is important to respect each other as well as the property itself. Always remember that common areas of the property are shared with the other residents and maintained by the association. Some may choose to throw a football with their children in the grassy common area, but this area is also where you choose to not pick up after your pet. This can cause a plethora of issues between homeowners and create a bad reputation for those who do politely pick up their pet’s waste. Not picking up your pet’s waste is also unfortunate when it comes to landscaping season. Not only is it unsanitary for those working in the area, it is not their duty to pick up after your pet in order to complete their job. Should an association have to hire an outside contractor to dispose of the animal deposits not picked up by the pet owners, this can trickle down
and affect the association’s budget and, thereby, the assessments charged. If this becomes a large enough problem, it may cause the association to doubt whether it should even allow pets in the first place. Whether you live in a single family home, or a townhome or condominium association, do the neighborly thing and clean up after Fido!
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