Poop Scooping
Yesterday marked the end of International Pooper Scoopers Week. Poop is something every pet owner has to deal with. Unfortunately, there are some misconceptions about poop and the need to clean it up. Picking up our pets poop has many benefits for not only our pets, but also for ourselves and our community. This week creates awareness of the importance of scooping your pet’s waste and disposing of it properly.
Here are 5 massive benefits to regularly scooping your dog’s poop:
1- Helps the grass grow
Dog poop doesn’t make good fertilizer! Many people actually believe that by not picking up the poop in their yard, they’re giving nutrients to the soil. Dog poop makes very poor fertilizer, due to the dog’s diets. What the poop actually does, is kill off the grass it falls on and the surrounding areas as it decomposes.
2- Helps keep waterways clear of contamination
During rain events, or through runoff from sprinklers, the poop makes its way into either stormwater or groundwater. Neither is the place for it. Stormwater systems usually go untreated, flushing the poop directly into nearby rivers and streams, leading to increased nutrient and bacteria loads that impact aquatic communities.
3- Disease control
The number of diseases (bacterial or parasitic) that pass through and survive the digestive system is numerous: tapeworms, hookworms, parvo, and giardia to name a few. By cleaning up poop, you help prevent the spread of these diseases to other dogs and animals in our community.
4- Keeps odor at bay
Obvious one here, for sure. However, sometimes the smell doesn’t hit us until it’s too late. A hot day in July or August, with a light breeze will tell you just how much poop is in your yard and surrounding area. Plus, it’s never pleasant to walk by a poop pile on the sidewalk while out for a walk. Picking up poop keeps the outdoors enjoyable for you and those around you.
5- Keeps bugs and pests away
Poop attracts flies, dung beetles, and cockroaches. This in turn brings in rodents and other animals. Not only are these pest annoying and problematic when they get in our homes, but they can also bring and spread additional diseases to our pets.
Did you know there are Professional Pooper Scoopers?
They come to your home and scoop your dog poop so you don’t have to! They even have their own organization: Association of Professional Animal Waste Specialists.
You may, or may not, know that we host a podcast, Pet Sitter Confessional. We’ve actually interviewed two Professional Poop Scoopers on it! Check out the links below to learn more about the life of a full time poop scooper. We really admire their passion and all that they do for their communities.
Episode 043: Kroopin’s Poopin Scoopin
Erica Krupin, owner of Kroopin’s Poopin Scoopin, discusses what it’s like running and operating a poop scooping business. From keeping it all organized, to finally being able to lead the life she’s always wanted, Erica shares what she loves about the life of a pet waste removal technician!
Episode 084: Palmetto Scoopers
We are joined by Courtney, owner of Palmetto Scoopers. Easily one of the most passionate people about a dogs #2, Courtney shares his enthusiasm with us and helps shine a light on a side of pet care that doesn't get talked a lot about.
