We’ve all been there – you glance out the window and see dark, ominous clouds rolling in. You know rain is imminent, but there’s one lingering question on your mind: should you pick up your dog’s poop before it rains? The answer is a resounding “yes!” and we at the Department of Doody are here to tell you why.

Should You Pick Up Dog Poop Before It Rains?

Why Pick Up Dog Poop Before It Rains?

As responsible dog owners, it’s our job to clean up after our pets. This responsibility becomes even more critical before a rainfall. Here’s why:

1. Preventing Environmental Contamination

Dog poop is more than just a nuisance. It contains harmful bacteria and parasites, such as E. coli and Giardia, which can be washed into our waterways by rain. This contamination can harm wildlife, pollute natural water sources, and even pose health risks to humans. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies pet waste as a non-point source pollutant, putting it in the same category as oil and toxic chemicals 1.

2. Maintaining Lawn Health

Dog poop can damage your lawn. When left unattended, especially during a rainstorm, it can smother grass and create unsightly, smelly patches in your yard. Picking up dog poop before it rains can help maintain your lawn’s health and aesthetic appeal.

3. Avoiding Messy Clean-up

Cleaning up dog poop after it rains can be a messy and unpleasant task. Rain can break down the poop, making it more difficult to pick up. To avoid this, it’s best to clean up before the rain starts.

4. Upholding Neighborhood Standards

Many neighborhoods and communities have rules about pet waste. Leaving dog poop unattended, especially before rain, can lead to unpleasant smells and unsightly yards, impacting the overall community environment. To be a good neighbor, it’s best to pick up after your pet as soon as possible.

Rain or Shine, Keep it Clean

No matter the weather forecast, it’s important to keep a regular schedule when it comes to cleaning up after your dog. This helps ensure that your lawn stays clean and green, and it keeps harmful pollutants out of our water systems.

At Department of Doody, we understand that life gets busy, and sometimes scooping the poop falls to the bottom of the to-do list. That’s why we offer comprehensive poop-scooping services to keep your yard clean and safe, rain or shine.

Whether it’s about to pour or it’s a sunny day, trust the experts at Department of Doody for your pet waste management needs. Remember we’re always here to help you maintain a clean and healthy environment for you and your pet. Contact us today!