PICK IT UP…OR PAY IT OUT
WED, 24 SEP 2014 BY LINDA ROSADO
From running a red light or jaywalking to returning your library book two days late, there are quite a few ways to rack up a fine. Whether big or small, almost all of us have been cited for one reason or another, prompting us to try to not repeat those actions. Pet parents are probably already aware of some of the potential consequences of not picking up after their pup, but did you know just how important it is to properly dispose of dog waste?
A number of cities, towns, and apartment complexes are opting for heavier fines for any of your best friend’s left-behind presents with health concerns being a major argument for the penalties. Many people seem to believe that dog poo is actually good for grass. Why not? Cow manure is used as fertilizer. Unfortunately, dog waste is actually very toxic to the environment. Deemed a pollutant by the EPA in 1991, it’s just as harmful as insecticides, grease, and acid drainage.
When the waste washes away, the bacteria ridden feces contaminates water sources and kills vegetation. Not only is this hazardous for the environment, but to us as well. There’s a good chance you’ve stepped in doggy doo at some point or another, and while you might have been more concerned about your shoes, in reality dog waste is more harmful than it is icky. Direct contact risks infection with hookworm, ringworm, tapeworm, and salmonella, among others.
Convinced to pick up after your dog yet? In addition to health risks and environmental concerns, local government has taken an extra step to keeping pet parents in check in order to maintain its environment and citizens healthy.
Typical fines run in the $20-$50 range for first time offenders. However, in some locations, repeat offenders can receive quite a hefty bill. Here are a few to take note of:
- Ipswich, Massachusetts: $200
- Fairfax County, Virginia: $250
- Lane County, Oregon: $300
- Orlando, Florida: $500
- Chicago, Illinois: $500
- Fort Worth, Texas: $500
- St. Louis, Missouri: $500 and 90 days in jail
- Bellingham, Washington: $500
- Honolulu, Hawaii: $500
- Englewood, New Jersey: $1,000
- Washington D.C.: $1,000
- Englewood, Colorado: $1,000 and a year in jail
- Charleston, South Caroline: $1,092
- Corpus Christi, Texas: $2,000
- Hoboken, New Jersey: $2,000
Fines are no joke. So, be sure to stay on the lookout for DOGIPOT Pet Stations are the easy way to keep both your community and wallet happy.