The North Central Texas Council of Governments together with Arlington’s Stormwater Management Division are hosting the Doo the Right Thing photo contest, rallying dog owners across the area to take a pledge, one that is far from a trivial promise: to scoop up their pup's poop. Dog lovers can join the challenge and submit their dog’s best shot by June 30, for a chance to have their pet highlighted as the "Watershed Protector" on DTRT social media platforms.
Although it may seem harmless to leave Sparky’s little “gifts” on the grass, pet waste is one of the lead villains in the saga of urban stormwater pollution. It's a nasty little uninvited guest that crashes into our rivers and streams unfiltered, says the City of Arlington, Texas. When ordinary rain comes to town, it can easily sweep uncollected pet waste off the streets straight into storm drains, leading directly to the nearest body of water. Those picturesque creeks and lakes we so cherish can become cesspools of ammonia and sediment, leading to murky waters and suffocating aquatic life. According to the website, improperly disposed of waste not only trashes our waterways but also plays a role in transmitting serious illnesses such as salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis, and dangerous parasites like toxocariasis and parvovirus, which can even be fatal for dogs.
To combat this dirty deed, adherence to a few simple guidelines suggested by the city's initiative can make significant strides for both personal health and environmental hygiene. Residents are urged, first and foremost, to pick up after their pets — and not just when eyes are watching. Carry disposable bags while walking your dog and ensure that waste finds its way into a proper trash receptacle, rather than left to possibly damage ecosystems.
However, the effort doesn't stop at mere collection. Composting, often a go-to for eco-conscious pet owners, is not recommended for feline or canine waste as it simply doesn't get hot enough to destroy lingering pathogens. Furthermore, spreading the word is crucial — tell your friends, neighbors, and even strangers to seriously consider the effects of pet waste. The pledge and photo contest are not just about keeping our shoes clean — it's a movement to ensure the community and its natural surroundings stay pristine.
