Scoop Your Poop LRGV
Dogs are America's favorite pet, with over 38% of households owning at least one. In the Lower Rio Grande Valley, there could be as many as 300,000 four legged friends who go wa-wa! And with each doggie, they create waste which can be toxic when introduced into the water supply. From those 300,000, an average dog produces 3/4 lbs. per day, at 225,000 pounds in the whole LRGV.
At LRGVDC, waste clean-up is our top priority, and are committed to informing the public of the risks associated with waste. As dog owners, we know that it is our responsibility to manage our furry friends' waste. There are dangerous side effects to not picking up after them.
In addition to being smelly, dog waste contributes to water quality issues. As water & stormwater runoff flows into water bodies, they can negative effects on people. Drinking water with dog waste can make fishers, beach goers and swimmers sick. Pathogens, parasites, and bacteria like E.coli are carried by stormwater runoff and can infest untreated water sources. Ingesting water with dog waste can make fishers, beach goers and swimmers sick, especially our most immuno-compromised individuals.
Dog waste is the #3 national contributor to water contamination in the United States.
Although you may think that your lawn maybe a fine place for dog waste, children may be exposed to disease associated with it. Also, gardens may also be affected as the waste may contaminate the food brought by it.
But you can help! Scooping up waste can keep dog waste from affecting your neighbors downstream.