Hey there, fellow pet lovers and community friends! It’s your favorite paw-some crew from Paw’ty Waggin’ here, and we’re excited to dish out some tough love about a topic that’s near and dear to our hearts (and noses): dog poop!

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s give a shoutout to our very own Chief Operations Officer (COO), Tannis, who was the first PooPrints Canada rep in BC back in 2019! She pioneered the “Responsible Pet Parent Programs” in high-density strata living, making it possible for pet owners and non-pet owners to live in harmony.

Fast forward to today, and we’re still passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership. Why? Because scooping the poop is not just about being a courteous neighbour; it’s about creating a safe and healthy community for everyone!

But let’s get real – we’ve all seen it happen. You’re strolling through the park, and suddenly, you spot a present left behind by a furry friend. And then, there’s the infamous “leaf kicker” – you know, the owner who discreetly uses their foot to brush leaves over their pet’s deposits, hoping no one will notice.

Newsflash: we notice! And it’s time to take responsibility for our pets’ business. Here are some fun (and not-so-fun) facts about dog poop:

• A single dog can release 7.8 billion fecal coliform bacteria per day in its waste, which can cause cramps, diarrhea, intestinal illness, and serious kidney disorders in people.
• Dog poop can leach into watersheds, killing fish and disrupting the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems.
• Only 60% of dog owners pick up their pet’s waste consistently, leaving a lot of poop behind.
• So, what can you do to help? Here are some paw-some tips to get you started:
• Pick up after your pup every time, everywhere!
• Use those dog poop bags for more than just scooping poop – they can be makeshift gloves for berry picking or bandages for first aid.
• Keep your car clean by collecting trash and food wrappers in a dog poop bag.
• If you live in a community, find a pet waste station and use it. If not, flush that poop down the toilet!
• As a homeowner, pick up poop in your yard weekly, especially before a big rain.

By promoting responsible pet ownership, we can create a community where pet owners and non-pet owners can live amicably together. It’s all about respecting each other’s space and taking pride in our neighbourhoods.

So, let’s join forces and make a difference this National Scoop the Poop Week! Grab those poop bags and let’s get to work. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more pet-friendly community for everyone to enjoy!

Stay safe, have fun, and remember: every scoop counts!

Warm Wags, The Paw’ty Waggin’ Team