From our friends at DoodyCalls...
In the DC area, uncollected dog waste deposits serve as a steady, abundant food source for rats, according to Jacob D’Aniello, founder and CEO of DoodyCalls, the nation’s largest pet waste management and disposal franchise.
“It is no secret that rat populations are growing exponentially in urban areas, despite major control efforts; but what many people don’t realize is that dog poop is a major food source for rats during the long winter months, when food becomes scarce,” he says. “Although most pet owners claim to be conscientious about cleaning up when they walk the dog, a stroll down most city sidewalks, parks, and green spaces suggests there is a long way to go.”
Recent estimates have found that there are upwards of 84 million dogs in the United States, and the EPA says the average dog discards approximately ¾ pounds of waste each day, or up to 62.7 million pounds - this adds up to a staggering 22.9 trillion pounds per year.
It's time to raise awareness and (hopefully) even change behaviors regarding “poop mindfulness”. Pet waste is more than just a nuisance during the winter months: It can be an environmental and public health problem.
If you think picking up what your dog leaves behind is disgusting - try drinking it. When left unscooped, waste sitting in backyards eventually breaks down and washes into the water supply, polluting our rivers, streams, creeks and other local waterways.
For anyone hesitant about grabbing a shovel or bag, there's help all around the DC metro area. Please visit doodycalls.com for more information.
