Pet Waste and Health: Are You a Responsible Parent?

How normalized is it for a pet parent to take their pet on morning walks to relieve unattended pet waste? Quiet a lot. As a passerby, does that bother you? Probably not. Directly, not at the moment, you can walk away from it. Away from the smell, away from the flies that might sit on it—little do we know that ends up costing us heavily, directly in multiple ways.

Pet waste is organic and will decompose over time, but it doesn’t break down harmlessly or quickly. It takes time—weeks to months—and during this period, it relentlessly releases bacteria and parasites into different bodies it comes into contact with: soil, water, grass, and air.

Sometimes, it really comes down to our values. Being a pet parent comes with responsibilities of all kinds. Managing your pet's waste is one of those responsibilities that should not negatively impact others. We wouldn't like to walk around and step on any sort of waste; why be a problem for someone who creates it?

It might not seem like a big deal, but not handling pet waste properly can really hurt the environment and our health. Pet waste is more than just a nuisance; if we don’t take care of it right, it can cause serious problems. By taking a few extra steps to clean up after our pets, we can make a big difference for everyone.

Our earth is round, and what goes around really does come around. When we do good, it tends to come back to us, just like when we do bad things, they can also come back to us. Pet waste is no different—it can affect you, if not others. If not now, it might catch up with you later.

To ask, how does my dog's poop that was left unattended bother me? It might be gone by tomorrow; come to think of it, where is it going?

Here's where it might be-

1. The pollution in your city: air and water quality in your city, adding to general pollution.
2. Your neighbourhood- Producing offensive smells in your neighbourhood that is causing an uneasy feeling on the streets and ground.
3. Your public space: You are putting everyone who utilises your public spaces at risk for health issues.
4. In your Groundwater: Contaminating drinking water sources that you and your community rely on.
5. Faecal Bacteria Spread: In your yard—spreading harmful bacteria that could make you and your pets sick.
6. Pest Attraction: In your surroundings—inviting pests like rats and flies that you’d rather not deal with.
7. Human and Pet Health Risks: In your home—posing health risks to your family and pets that could be avoided.
8. River and Lake Pollution: In your local waters—polluting rivers and lakes that you or your family might swim in or enjoy.
9. Algae Blooms: In your water sources—triggering algae blooms that can ruin your water quality and affect local wildlife.
10. Soil Contamination: In your garden—contaminating soil where you grow your plants and flowers.
11. Increased Sanitation Costs: In your community—leading to higher sanitation costs that could end up affecting your wallet.

Just because there aren’t strict pet waste disposal laws doesn’t mean we should take it lightly. Ignoring proper pet waste management isn’t just about missing a rule-it’s about not being considerate to our community and environment. It’s not a friendly request; it’s a matter of doing the right thing. We shouldn’t want to come across as careless or a nuisance. Properly handling pet waste shows respect for the places we live and the people around us. Let’s step up and take responsibility, not just because we have to, but because it’s the right thing to do.

As pet parents, we have a responsibility to ensure that our pets' waste does not harm the environment or public health. By understanding the severe consequences of improper pet waste disposal and adopting responsible practices, we can contribute to a cleaner, healthier community for everyone.

What you should do instead away walking away from your pet waste in public

1. Proper Disposal: Always use a trash can or designated waste bin for pet waste.
2. Biodegradable Bags: Use biodegradable poop bags to reduce environmental impact.
3. Regular Cleanup: Clean up pet waste regularly from your yard and public spaces.
4. Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling pet waste.
5. Follow Regulations: Adhere to local laws regarding pet waste disposal.
6. Educate Others: Spread awareness among fellow pet parents about the importance of responsible pet waste management.

By following these steps, we can ensure a safer, cleaner environment for our pets, ourselves, and our community. Let's work together to make a positive impact and take pride in being responsible pet parents.