baloutasara
environment photo 2
#BIOL4394Photo2
Dog Waste
Sara Balouta. This photo was taken on May 6th in Orland Park, IL. There's a park in my neighborhood where residents tend to walk their dogs around. Many signs are embedded in the park to help preserve the park and protect it. This particular sign captured my interest. I thought how could dog feces cause diseases in humans? And how would it end up doing so? Many people tend to skip picking up after their dogs, by doing so is not only illegal, but it's harmful for the environment as well. Dog waste is an environmental pollutant, and a human health hazard. A common misconception about dog waste is that it is similar to cow waste and can act as a fertilizer. However, that is simply not true. Dogs' diets differ from cows’. Dogs typically eat meat while cows primarily eat grass. Therefore, cows’ waste mainly consists of undigested plant fibers. These fibers can provide nutrients to the soil and help plants grow. However, because dogs eat more protein, their waste is highly acidic and contains pathogens. When infected dogs’ waste is left on the soil, the eggs of some parasites can linger in the soil for a long time. Which can transmit diseases through vegetables or even walking barefoot. Dog waste is also high in nitrogen and phosphorus, which explains why grass turns yellow in some spots if it is not picked up. In addition, dog waste can end up in local water sources and cause diseases. Now you may be thinking, how is that even possible? Well, when it rains or when the snow melts, dog waste can get washed into waterways through storm drains. As the dog waste enters local water sources, it can cause pollution in lakes and rivers. The nitrogen and phosphorus contained in the waste can deplete oxygen that fish and aquatic life need to survive. Dog waste also contains harmful nutrients. As dog waste decomposes in water bodies, it releases nutrients that cause excessive growth of harmful algae and weeds. This makes the water green, smelly, and murky. Making it impossible for swimming or finishing. In addition, pathogens contained in dog waste such as E.coli and salmonella are illness-causing bacteria, which can spread diseases in humans through swimming or fishing. Infections resulting from the bacteria can be life-threatening in infants, elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Furthermore, rats and mice are attracted to dog waste as a food source. This can also be a source for diseases and health risks. It is also unlawful to not pick up after your dog. The pooper scooper law mandates that all dog owners must collect their pet’s waste and deposit it in the trash. Failing to do so can result in a fine up to $2,000. As you can see, being a responsible dog owner and picking up your dog’s waste is very important. It is not only required by law, but it is also a civic duty. I hope this post provided helpful information about this environmental issue!
environment photo 2
#BIOL4394Photo2
Dog Waste
Sara Balouta. This photo was taken on May 6th in Orland Park, IL. There's a park in my neighborhood where residents tend to walk their dogs around. Many signs are embedded in the park to help preserve the park and protect it. This particular sign captured my interest. I thought how could dog feces cause diseases in humans? And how would it end up doing so? Many people tend to skip picking up after their dogs, by doing so is not only illegal, but it's harmful for the environment as well. Dog waste is an environmental pollutant, and a human health hazard. A common misconception about dog waste is that it is similar to cow waste and can act as a fertilizer. However, that is simply not true. Dogs' diets differ from cows’. Dogs typically eat meat while cows primarily eat grass. Therefore, cows’ waste mainly consists of undigested plant fibers. These fibers can provide nutrients to the soil and help plants grow. However, because dogs eat more protein, their waste is highly acidic and contains pathogens. When infected dogs’ waste is left on the soil, the eggs of some parasites can linger in the soil for a long time. Which can transmit diseases through vegetables or even walking barefoot. Dog waste is also high in nitrogen and phosphorus, which explains why grass turns yellow in some spots if it is not picked up. In addition, dog waste can end up in local water sources and cause diseases. Now you may be thinking, how is that even possible? Well, when it rains or when the snow melts, dog waste can get washed into waterways through storm drains. As the dog waste enters local water sources, it can cause pollution in lakes and rivers. The nitrogen and phosphorus contained in the waste can deplete oxygen that fish and aquatic life need to survive. Dog waste also contains harmful nutrients. As dog waste decomposes in water bodies, it releases nutrients that cause excessive growth of harmful algae and weeds. This makes the water green, smelly, and murky. Making it impossible for swimming or finishing. In addition, pathogens contained in dog waste such as E.coli and salmonella are illness-causing bacteria, which can spread diseases in humans through swimming or fishing. Infections resulting from the bacteria can be life-threatening in infants, elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Furthermore, rats and mice are attracted to dog waste as a food source. This can also be a source for diseases and health risks. It is also unlawful to not pick up after your dog. The pooper scooper law mandates that all dog owners must collect their pet’s waste and deposit it in the trash. Failing to do so can result in a fine up to $2,000. As you can see, being a responsible dog owner and picking up your dog’s waste is very important. It is not only required by law, but it is also a civic duty. I hope this post provided helpful information about this environmental issue!