Article provided by Scoop Troop – Spokane Pooper Scooper Service
The health risks of not properly disposing of pet waste are often overlooked, but they are very real. Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause a variety of illnesses in humans and other animals.
One of the most common diseases transmitted through pet waste is giardiasis, which is caused by a parasite called Giardia. This parasite is found in the feces of infected animals, and can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated soil or water. Symptoms of giardiasis include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea, and the illness can be particularly severe in young children and people with compromised immune systems.
Another disease that can be transmitted through pet waste is salmonella, which is caused by bacteria that is found in the feces of many animals, including dogs and cats. Salmonella can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated soil or water, or by ingesting food or water that has been contaminated with pet waste. Symptoms of salmonella include fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and the illness can be life-threatening in severe cases.
In addition to these diseases, pet waste can also contain other harmful bacteria and parasites, including E. coli and roundworms. These organisms can cause a variety of illnesses in humans, and can be transmitted through contact with contaminated soil or water, or by ingesting contaminated food or water.
To protect yourself and your community from the health risks associated with pet waste, it’s important to properly dispose of it. This typically means using a plastic bag to pick up the waste, and disposing of it in a trash can. Some pet owners prefer to use biodegradable bags, which are made from environmentally-friendly materials and break down over time.
In addition to disposing of pet waste properly, it’s also important to keep your yard clean and free of feces. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria and parasites, and can also reduce unpleasant odors and improve the appearance of your property.
Overall, the health risks of not properly disposing of pet waste are significant, and should not be overlooked. By following proper pet waste disposal procedures, you can help protect yourself and your community from a variety of illnesses.
