Why you should always pick it up:

We're all trying to be as environmentally friendly as possible. It may seem like leaving your dog's poop on ground during your walk is better than using a plastic bag to pick it up, but that is causing more harm than good.

The harm of not picking up your dog's poop

• Contaminates water sources
• Disrupts animal habitats and food sources
• Spreads bacteria, parasite, and other pathogens

So the question is which is worse: the plastic bags or the disruption of ecosystems and spread of bacteria and diseases?

For more detailed explanation check out these sources:

• Does a bear poop in the woods? Yes, but your dog shouldn’t

• https://ecology.wa.gov/Issues-and-local-projects/Education-training/What-you-can-do/Washington-Waters-ours-to-protect/Manage-animal-manure

• https://health.ri.gov/healthrisks/petwaste/
• https://smea.uw.edu/currents/scoop-the-poop-its-your-environmental-doody-pun-intended/
• https://www.cctexas.com/services/utilities/storm-water-pollution-prevention/pet-waste-pollution

Want to compost it?

Composting your dog's poop is an alternative to throwing those bags into the landfill. Here's how to start: NRCS guide

Not all cities allow composting - be sure to check before you start!