Dog Poo – How Does It Affect The Environment?
There are many reasons why dog poo poses a problem. Pet dogs are a non-native, introduced species, eating food which isn’t from the natural environment and pooping it out in nature. Not picking up and disposing of it responsibly has a detrimental effect on wildlife, livestock and humans.
It is too acidic
The doggie diet is high in protein. When this breaks down it becomes acidic, preventing rarer wildflowers from establishing. This impacts the rest of the food chain, meaning less insects and birds too. The nutrients added to the soil from dog waste favours plants like nettles and brambles. You may notice that these plants seem to establish near car parks – where more dog waste is found!
It contains excessive nutrients
Nutrients are often thought of as a good thing, but excess nutrients cause an imbalance in the ecosystem leading to loss of biodiversity. Poo from grazing animals like sheep and cows doesn’t have the same negative effect, as these animals are recycling existing nutrients, not bringing in new ones.
It contains pathogens harmful to other living creatures
Dog poo contains bacteria, viruses and parasites which can harm humans and aquatic life and is toxic to insects. There is also growing evidence of the link between diseases in livestock and the presence on grazing land of faeces from infected dogs. These diseases can be deadly, particularly for young livestock.
It may contain damaging chemicals
Many tick treatments contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment, especially aquatic eco-systems. Wormers may contain chemicals that affect the dung of grazing animals, negatively impacting the dung beetle which is crucial to supporting biodiversity.
How can you help?
- Always carry poo bags on a dog walk and pick up immediately. If you forget your bags, ask another dog walker for one.
- Some people just leave poo bags behind, on the ground or even hanging in the trees. As well as being unsightly this can be dangerous for livestock which may eat the bags.
- If you struggle with picking up, try using a Dicky Bag or similar. These are designed to make picking up easier, sealing the smell in and allowing you to carry dog waste hands-free until you find a bin.
- Composting at home is the best way to dispose of your dog’s poo. It prevents soil and water contamination from dog poo, recycling it into a useful substance.
- Encourage others, spread awareness, and if you are a dog owner check out Devon Loves Dogs. This is a free dog membership scheme which provides useful information, walks and advice.
