Dog poop isn’t just an unpleasant inconvenience—it’s a serious health and environmental hazard. Many pet owners underestimate the risks associated with leaving dog waste in their yards. Beyond being an eyesore, pet waste contains harmful bacteria, parasites, and pollutants that can threaten your family, pets, and the environment. That’s why regular pet waste cleanup is essential.
At Scoopie’s Pet Waste Cleanup, we’re committed to keeping yards across the Des Moines Metro, including Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Johnston, Grimes, and Polk City, clean and safe. Let’s take a closer look at the hidden dangers of dog poop and why consistent removal is so important.
1. Dog Waste is a Breeding Ground for Bacteria & Parasites
Did you know that a single gram of dog waste can contain over 23 million bacteria? Some of the most common health risks lurking in dog poop include:
- E. Coli – A dangerous bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal infections in both pets and humans.
- Roundworms & Hookworms – These parasites can live in soil long after the waste has decomposed, potentially infecting children and other animals.
- Salmonella – Another harmful bacteria that can spread through contaminated surfaces, leading to serious food poisoning symptoms.
- Parvovirus – A highly contagious and potentially deadly virus that affects dogs, particularly puppies.
These bacteria and parasites don’t just disappear once the poop breaks down. They can remain in your yard for weeks or even months, posing ongoing risks to your family and pets.
2. Dog Poop Can Contaminate Local Water Sources
Pet waste left on the ground doesn’t just stay in your yard—it eventually gets washed away by rain, carrying bacteria and parasites into storm drains, rivers, and lakes. This type of pollution is a major contributor to water contamination and can have devastating effects on local ecosystems.
In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies dog waste as a nonpoint source pollutant, placing it in the same category as pesticides, oil, and other toxic substances. Proper disposal of dog waste through a professional pet waste removal service helps prevent harmful runoff and keeps the Des Moines Metro’s water sources clean.
3. Protecting Kids, Pets, and Visitors
If you have children or guests who enjoy spending time in your yard, uncollected pet waste presents a major health hazard. Kids playing outside are especially vulnerable to coming into contact with contaminated soil, which can lead to accidental ingestion of harmful bacteria and parasites.
Similarly, other pets visiting your home or playing in dog parks can pick up infections from leftover waste. Consistent dog waste cleanup helps eliminate these risks, making your outdoor space safer for everyone.
4. Dog Waste Attracts Pests & Rodents
Leaving dog poop in your yard can invite unwanted guests, including flies, rats, and other pests. Flies use pet waste as a breeding ground, increasing the chances of infestations around your home. Rats and other rodents are drawn to the undigested nutrients in pet waste, making your yard an attractive feeding area.
A professional pooper scooper service ensures regular cleanup, keeping pests away and helping maintain a healthier outdoor environment.
5. Keeping Your Yard Clean & Odor-Free
Nobody wants to deal with the overpowering smell of pet waste in their yard. When waste accumulates, especially during warm weather, the odor can become unbearable for you and your neighbors. A weekly or bi-weekly dog poop cleanup service ensures your yard stays fresh and inviting, free from lingering smells.
Why Hiring a Pooper Scooper Service is the Best Solution
Between busy schedules and daily responsibilities, it’s easy to forget about dog waste cleanup. That’s why Scoopie’s Pet Waste Cleanup is here to help! We offer reliable, affordable dog poop removal services in Des Moines, Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Johnston, Grimes, Polk City, and surrounding areas.
With our professional pet waste removal service, you get:
✔ A cleaner, safer yard for your family and pets
✔ No more bad odors ruining your outdoor space
✔ Less risk of bacteria and parasite exposure
✔ Responsible waste disposal to protect the environment
✔ More time to enjoy your yard—without the hassle of cleanup!
Schedule Your Dog Waste Removal Service Today!
Don’t let pet waste put your family, pets, and yard at risk. Contact Scoopie’s Pet Waste Cleanup today to schedule weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time pet waste removal in the Des Moines Metro. Let us handle the dirty work so you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier outdoor space!