Tippecanoe County Dogs
In recent surveys of Tippecanoe County residents, completed through a partnership between the TCPWQ and Purdue University, questions related to pet waste were included. The statement was worded as follows: “Pet waste should be picked up only as a courtesy to others, not because it causes water pollution”, and those completing the survey were asked to assess the statement as either correct or incorrect. Of the 400 responses collected through several survey methods, approximately 28% answered incorrectly, or indicated that they agreed with the statement, implying that pet waste does not lead to water pollution.
To help inform Tippecanoe County residents and visitors of the impacts of pet waste on local water quality, the TCPWQ has developed this Pet Waste Fact Sheet.
More than 35,000 dogs live in Tippecanoe County, producing more than 6 tons of dog waste that is dropped in Tippecanoe County backyards every day! See more details
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Roundworms, E. coli, and Giardia are just a few of the many harmful microorganisms that can be transmitted from pet waste to humans. Some can last in your yard for as long as four years if not cleaned up. Children who play outside and adults who garden are at greatest risk of infection. See more details.
Pet waste is one of the leading causes of bacterial contamination of streams in Tippecanoe County. Pet waste also causes the same nitrogen related problems as fertilizer and livestock manure.
The solution is safe and easy.
1) Scoop the poop, 2) put it in a plastic bag, 3) place it in the trash, and 4) wash your hands.
Composting or burying your pet's waste does not reliably destroy the harmful organisms. Source: Snohomish County, WA
Further, the following links will provide more information as well as additional resources so you can learn how to lessen your impact on water quality, while also maintaining a healthier yard and community for yourself, your family, and your pet.
Think About Personal Pollution: Pollution Sources-Pet Waste
Pollution Prevention Fact Sheet: Animal Waste Collection
Video clips:
Anti-Pollution Television Ads (City of Tallahassee)
The Poop Detective
