You Might Want To Clean Up The Dog Poop In Your Yard…
Deciding to adopt or buy a dog is an exciting venture for any family or individual. Snuggles, playtime, morning and evening walks are just a few of the joys of adding a four-legged family member to your home. One of the things many dog owners don’t enjoy and prefer to not talk about is the dog poop in the yard. But, it is one of the many responsibilities you take on as a dog owner.
Besides its unsightliness, dog poop is actually dangerous to leave lying about in your yard. Here are five dangers of dog poop in the yard.
1. Grass Discoloration
When dog poop is left in the yard for long periods, it smothers the grass preventing it from gaining adequate moisture and nutrients. This causes lawn burns, discoloration, and can kill it leaving ugly brown patches behind that require special attention to bring back to life.
2. Spread Bacterial Illness
In 1991, the Environmental Protection Agency determined that dog poop was an official pollutant. One of the reasons is because of the amount of harmful bacteria it contains. When humans or other canines are exposed to this bacteria, they can contract various illnesses including Salmonellosis, Toxocariasis, and Campylobacteriosis. All three bring dreadful symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, blurry vision, and fevers.
3. Increase Fly Population
Leaving dog poop in the yard attracts other unwanted insects like flies. Flies will lay their eggs in the feces and carry the bacteria from one point to another. Over time, the backyard will become infested with flies carrying illnesses and bacteria making it undesirable. These pests easily find their way indoors spreading bacteria and diseases with them.
4. Water Contamination
Dog poop can remain in the yard for up to four years if it is not correctly removed. Being outside, it is subject to rainfall, sprinklers, and water from garden hoses. The force from these water sources can carry the feces and bacteria into public water sources like puddles, storm drains, wells, and streams. When humans or other animals come in contact with this water they are subject to infections or illnesses from the bacteria.
5. Nobody Will Want to Spend Time There
If a backyard is inundated with dog poop, flies, and other pests, it quickly becomes an area people want to avoid instead of a place for gatherings. By removing the dog poop quickly, a backyard can continue to be a place where memories are built and quality time is spent with those you care about.
Before you procrastinate picking up dog poop in the yard, remember these dangers and make it a priority. If you notice any discoloration in your grass, contact the lawn care professionals at Perennial Lawn Care today.
Posted on