For pet owners, picking up after your pet is simply a part of life, a somewhat nasty part of life, but. . . it’s a chore that comes with the gift of having a furry (or not-so-furry) pet to love.  No matter if you’re the owner that attends to it daily, weekly, monthly or avoids it all together understanding why pick-up matters is more important than you may think.  Ahead of National Scoop the Poop week which falls April 23^rd to 29^th this year, it’s important to understand why the week is observed and how you and your pet make an impact.

We connected with Max Miller of We Scoop 4 You, a Las Vegas Pet Waste Management company to share some insights into how their services help (beyond the obvious) and industry insights into the impact of waste.

Pet waste can directly impact the environment and public health as it contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that can contaminate waterways, soil and even further, impact humans and wildlife.  Miller noted that “the EPA considers dog waste a non-point source of pollution and a potential hazard, similar to toxic chemicals and pesticides, due to its ability to contaminate water sources and transmit disease.”  

While pick-up as noted above is key to reducing the impact to water and ground sources, improper pick-up and disposal can directly impact human health, particularly in those that may have a weakened immune system.  Young children, pregnant women and the elderly are particularly susceptible however contaminated soil or improper handling of waste can infect anyone.  There are a myriad of things humans can contract from dogs, Taxocariasis (Roundworm) is one example where the longer the waste sits, the parasitic eggs become more infectious driving home another reason to pick-up promptly.

Uncollected pet waste poses significant health risks to dogs as well as humans.  At the dog park, on neighborhood walks or just at home, understanding the risk may have you picking up or watching your pup more closely.  Pet waste carries bacteria which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses, parasites and viruses that can all be transmitted to your dog or others through contact.  No matter if your own pup sniffs, touches or ingests the impacted feces, they’re at risk of contracting any of the above or a potentially deadly virus.

There are simple ways you can help the environment and keep yourself and your pets safe.  The risks and impact of dog waste are larger than most people realize, however, protecting yourself, your pup and the community is as easy as following just a few simple steps, pick it up, dispose of it properly and wash up!  As noted here by Clark County, picking up via plastic bag for trash disposal or utilizing services or your home scooper are means of pick-up without contact.  Ensuring hands are washed regardless of proximity after pick-up is a step you won’t want to skip.

Participating in National Poop Scoop Week is not only about keeping our communities clean and safe but also about demonstrating responsible pet ownership. By being diligent in cleaning up after pets helps prevent the spread of disease and contribute to a healthier environment. It also fosters a sense of community pride and respect for shared spaces, encouraging others to follow suit.

If you need some help, We Scoop 4 You  is one of the Las Vegas providers that is ready to assist.  Miller noted that as a family-owned and operated business they take great pride in the personal touch and attention they can give to every job.  “Our commitment to high quality and 100% customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do.”  Serving the Las Vegas, North Las Vegas & Henderson areas to name a few, they are focused on providing a reliable service and building relationships with the variety of clients that need their help.  From the busy family and professionals to those facing mobility challenges, Miller and team say they’re ready for the call.  Visit their site to learn more about their pick-up and deodorizing services as well as to book services for their no-contract pick-up with options that range as low as $14.99 a visit.

 As National Poop Scoop Week approaches, let’s all commit to making a difference, ensuring our parks, sidewalks, and neighborhoods remain pristine for everyone to enjoy.