When dog poop gets left on the ground, rain and snow melt wash the bacteria and parasites from the waste into storm drains, which empty directly into local streams, ponds, and lakes.

Bacteria and parasites from dog waste cause water quality problems for drinking water resources, recreation, and wildlife—and can also cause serious health issues for people.

EPA estimates that two or three days’ worth of droppings from a population of about 100 dogs would contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a bay and all watershed areas within 20 miles of it, to swimming and shell fishing. Fecal waste-contaminated water can cause people to have serious kidney disorders, intestinal illness, cramps and diarrhea.

You can help prevent this!

Every time you walk your dog…
• please carry a bag to pick up pet waste,
• dispose of waste in a trash can,
• and never put anything down a storm drain! (Seriously – read about “Poopgate”, a clogged storm drain nightmare in Canton.)