Ever caught a whiff of dog poop and wondered if it is actually bad for you? You are not alone. Many pet owners believe that poop only smells bad but does not cause any harm. The truth is that dog poop can release bacteria and gases into the air that may affect people and pets over time.
You might have heard that it just smells unpleasant but is harmless. That is not exactly true. In today’s Doggy Doods Digest, we are taking a closer look at why breathing in dog poop particles can be unhealthy and what you can do to keep your yard and lungs happy.
When dog waste is left on the ground, it does not just dry up and disappear. As it breaks down, it releases ammonia and methane, both of which can be harmful in high amounts. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pet waste is considered a pollutant that adds nutrients and harmful bacteria to the environment.
As poop dries, bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can become airborne and spread through the dust. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that dog poop can carry germs that make people and animals sick and should be picked up even in your own yard.
If you or your kids spend time playing in the yard, there is a chance you are breathing in small particles of waste matter, especially on windy days. Children and people with allergies or weaker immune systems are more likely to feel the effects of poor air quality caused by decaying poop.
Dog waste that builds up can also encourage the growth of mold and attract insects such as flies, which carry bacteria from one spot to another. All of this adds up to an unpleasant and unhealthy outdoor space.
Leaving poop behind does not just affect your yard. Research has shown that when dog waste builds up in neighborhoods, it becomes a measurable source of airborne bacteria and can even affect nearby water sources after rain. A peer-reviewed study from the University of Colorado Boulder found that during winter, dried dog feces were a significant contributor to airborne bacteria in some cities.
While a single pile might not seem like a big deal, multiply that by hundreds of dogs across St. Charles County and it adds up quickly. Consistent cleanup keeps the air cleaner for everyone who lives nearby.
Keeping your yard free of dog waste is the best way to lower the health risks. Try these simple steps:
Scoop the yard at least once a week, or more often if you have multiple dogs.
Always dispose of waste in a sealed bag to limit bacteria release.
Avoid mowing over old poop since that can spread dried particles into the air.
If you notice strong odors, rinse the area and let it dry fully in sunlight.
Even with regular scooping, odor and bacteria can still linger in grass or soil. That is where professional help can make a difference.
At Doggy Doods, we focus on more than clean yards. We help create healthier outdoor spaces for families across St. Charles County. During each visit, our pooper scooper service removes every bit of waste and helps reduce the bacteria and gases that can affect air quality.
We also use an enzymatic deodorizer that safely breaks down odor-causing bacteria without harming pets or plants. It is a small step that keeps your yard smelling fresh and your air cleaner.
If keeping up with all of this sounds like a lot, we are happy to help. You can get a free quote anytime!
