Here’s the scoop:
Poop pollutes!
Did you know that pet waste is one of the leading causes of harmful bacteria in our local waterways? In addition to being unsightly, pet waste gets washed into nearby storm drains, ponds, and rivers when it rains and becomes a major source of nitrogen and bacteria pollution. This excess nitrogen and bacteria is responsible for cloudy, green, foul-smelling water; aquatic dead zones; declines in local fish and crab populations; and beach closures. Yuck!
The average-sized dog creates a half pound of poop every day. That’s a lot of pollution that could be finding its way into our waterways! So what can you do to help? It’s as easy as 1-2-3!
- Take the pledge to Scoop the Poop!
- Scoop it, bag it and trash it each and every time (whether in your own yard or out for a walk).
- Share the pledge with others in your community. A conversation with your neighbor, an email to a coworker or sharing on Facebook and Twitter are all perfect ways to get the word out to the dog lovers in your life.
Last year the “From Rover to River – No Poop Left Behind” partners sent over 60,000 emails encouraging residents to sign the Scoop the Poop pledge and received nearly 600 pledges in just 3 days! And if you need help remembering why you’ve gotta pick up the poop – just remember this catchy jingle!
A BIG scratch behind the ears to our scoop the poop community partners:
Chesapeake Humane Society | Elizabeth River Project | James River Association | Lafayette Wetlands Partnership | Nansemond River Preservation Alliance | Norfolk SPCA | People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals | Virginia Beach SPCA