Have you ever been outside for a lovely walk only to have your happy thoughts vanish after stepping in squishy pile of poo?
Unfortunately some pet owners simply choose to ignore an inconvenient mess. But aside from the gross factor and associated aggravation, why is it recommended that pet owners scoop the poop? Welcome to the fascinating world of disease prevention and hygiene…
Be Afraid of the “Z” Word
A zoonotic disease can be spread from an animal to a human through various viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. While most human disease originates in animals, the ones that hinge upon the transmission between animals and humans are considered zoonotic diseases. In this case, disease can be be spread via your pet’s feces.
All Members Of Your Family
Maintaining a regular poop-scooping schedule is not only good for your pet, it’s vital in protecting all members of your family. Even with your pet’s parasite prevention, his or her feces can still contain millions of harmful bacteria. Veterinary diagnostics can reveal some of the most common pathogens found in – and transmitted through – your pet’s feces, including:
- Roundworms, whipworms, hookworms, and tapeworms
- Coccidia
- Giardia
- Parvovirus
- Salmonella
- E.coli
- Campylobacter
- Cryptosporidiosis
- Leptospirosis
Even if your pet doesn’t sample fecal matter (gross, but it definitely happens!), his or her paws may come into contact with trace amounts. Contaminated paws can come into contact with your flooring or furniture, placing everyone in your house at risk.
Please Scoop the Poop
It’s obvious that picking up your pet’s messes is one of the easiest methods of disease prevention, but what else is there? We recommend:
- Always carrying extra waste baggies when out and about with your pet
- Keeping up your pet’s parasite prevention, annual vaccinations, and other facets of preventive health
- Maintaining a clean backyard
- After scooping the scoop, place it in a secure waste bin
- Not allowing your dog to sniff or eat any feces while away from home
- Making sure your small children never play near or with animal feces (cover up the sandbox when not in use)
- Scooping the poop in your cat’s litter box at least once a day
- Washing your hands afterwards
Doing Your Part
When we all work together to prevent the spread of disease, everyone benefits. When we scoop the poop, we are not only stopping dangerous from pathogens between animals and people, but we are also doing our part to keep water supplies free of disease as well. Plus, when we all show enormous responsibility and respect, our companion animals are welcomed into other areas of our lives, like restaurants, hotels, and entertainment arenas.
In short, via parasite screenings, deworming, vaccinations, and regular preventatives, you are doing your part for a cleaner, disease-free world.
Please let us know if you have questions or concerns. Our staff is always here to support the health of your pet!
