Do you know what to “Doo”?

Today’s post comes from ILACSD’s Environmental Educator, Monica Rosquillas!

Have you ever walked down the street and seen the evidence that man’s best friend had been there as well? Although most dog owners do the right thing and pick up after their pets, the truth is that many don’t, and with the hundreds of thousands of dogs in San Diego County that means more pollution for our watersheds.  Pet waste carries bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can threaten the health of humans and animals, and that’s why it’s very important that we always “doo” the right thing and “scoop the poop”. Pet waste that isn’t picked up can get carried by rainwater into storm drains. Since our storm water does not get treated, the bacteria- rich dog waste will likely end up in our rivers and eventually in the ocean.

I Love A Clean San Diego has partnered with the County of San Diego Watershed Protection Program to encourage San Diego dog owners to commit to picking up their dog’s waste. We’ll be attending various community events throughout San Diego County and surveying dog owners on how often they pick up their pet’s waste on their property. Results from the 2011 surveys show that 70% of rural San Diego dog owners are already doing the right thing, and by participating in these events we hope that that number will grow. And why wouldn’t dog owners want to do the right thing? Responsible pet waste management keeps yards and feet clean, and also protects the quality of our region’s creeks, lakes, and beaches.

If you happen to see us at a community event around San Diego, please stop by our booth and sign the pledge to commit to picking up your pet’s waste to protect our watersheds!