News Flash

Picking up your dog’s excrement (poop) isn’t just polite—it’s important for public health, safety, and the environment.  When taking your dog on a walk or to the park, be a good neighbor and scoop up the poop!  Below, you'll find the top reasons to be a considerate "pooper scooper."

• Prevents the Spread of Disease: Dog feces can carry harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses, such as E. coli, Salmonella, Parvovirus, and Giardia.  These can infect other dogs, wildlife, and even humans, especially children.
• It's the Law: Dublin Municipal Code 7.74.090 states that it is "unlawful to throw, deposit, leave, abandon, maintain or keep materials or waste on public or private lands in a manner and place where they may result in an illicit discharge."  Failing to pick up after your dog can result in fines or other penalties.
•  Protects Water Quality: Rain can wash dog waste into storm drains, contaminating rivers, lakes, and oceans. This can lead to algae blooms, unsafe swimming water, and damage to aquatic life.
• Keeps Public Areas Clean: No one wants to see or smell dog poop on sidewalks, trails, or lawns.  Leaving it behind is disrespectful to others and gives other dog owners a bad name.
• Sets a Good Example: Cleaning up shows responsibility and helps promote good habits among other dog owners in your community.
• Helps Monitor Your Dog's Health: Dog poop can reveal a lot about your dog’s well-being. You’re more likely to notice worms or parasites; blood or mucus; changes in consistency or color.
• It's Not Fertilizer: Unlike cow manure, dog poop is too acidic and protein-rich for plants. It can actually harm grass and soil, disrupting ecosystems and damaging lawns.

• It's Easy: Bags are inexpensive or even provided in many public areas.  With compostable options available, it’s also becoming more eco-friendly.