Pet waste contains harmful organisms like E.coli, Giardia, and roundworms that can be transmitted to people and pets if not cleaned up and properly disposed. A single gram of pet waste contains an average of 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, some of which can cause disease in humans. Pets, children who play outside, and adults who garden are at the greatest risk of infection.
When it rains, pet waste is washed down the storm drain and into the nearest stream or lake. People or pets that come in contact with the contaminated water can become sick.
Pet waste decays, using up dissolved oxygen and releasing compounds that are harmful to fish and other animals that rely on water.
Pet waste contains nutrients that can cause excessive algae growth in a water river or lake, upsetting the natural balance.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
Luckily, the solution to this problem is quite simple. All you have to do is practice proper pet waste disposal:
RESOURCES:
Washington Department of Ecology Dog Poop Page
Dog Doogity Dog Poop PSA for ScoopPoop.org - Video
Government