A Few Minutes with the Mayor – April 2021

This month, I want to address something that several citizens have commented on—which may be an uncomfortable subject for some. I tried several approaches to this subject, but this subject is hard to write about for some reason. I tried scientific, humorous, dead-pan and folksy… none seemed to work. I’m talking poop here, so I’ll just leap right in, metaphorically speaking. Jacksonville is a “dog town.” We all love our dogs, but let’s face it, no one loves your dog like you do. They certainly don’t love what your dog leaves behind and there seems to be more left behind than usual!

There are always unspoken rules and etiquette for dog owners when their dogs are out in public. Most cities post signage regarding the city regulations for dogs. People usually carefully monitor their pet, pick up after them, don’t let them off leash, and don’t let them wander onto others’ property. However, there are always exceptions. Recently, I greeted a young couple walking two large retrievers. This couple let their dogs walk into the flower beds of a private, nicely landscaped home, proceed to do their business and walked off—after they had trampled flowers and shrubs. Not only might the homeowner find a nasty surprise in their beds, the plants were disturbed and the homeowner’s beautiful landscaping was impacted. I remarked to this couple that they had allowed their dogs onto private property, to which they replied, “Dogs are dogs, they don’t know any better!”

They did pick up after their dog, finally, but it made me think: dogs are pack animals and look to their pack leader (us) for guidance. Our dogs are only as well-mannered as we teach them to be. So, let your dog go in an appropriate place. Be considerate of other’s property. If you don’t have a yard of your own or are traveling, it can be easily dealt with. Luckily, in Jacksonville, we have plenty of dog relief stations near our parks, trails, paths and green spaces. These stations, all paid for by the City, include a garbage can and a post with a poop bag dispenser attached.

Dogs are loved and welcomed in Jacksonville. Here’s where it gets tricky. What most people who don’t pick up after their pet may not realize, is how dangerous dog poop can be. Dog waste is a source of many fatal disease-causing bacteria and parasites. Only one gram of doggie waste contains about 23 million fecal bacteria. The Center for Disease Control reports that these bacteria can be transmitted to humans, especially small children.

Your pet’s feces may include bacteria from Salmonella, E. coli, Giardia, Parvo Virus, Tapeworms, Roundworms, Campylobacteriosis, Hookworms and Echinococcus.

Bacteria can be spread by your shoes, your pet’s feet, wind, insects, birds, and rain. By simply mowing over dog poop on your lawn, you have created a windstorm of bacteria whooshing into your nose, mouth and lungs. Your children, or grandchildren, play in your garden and at the park. They may put their hands on their face or, heaven forbid, your face. Then, they are bound to lounge on the furniture and their beds, spreading more bacteria.

Every time it rains, dog waste left on the ground makes its way to our waterways causing elevated levels of bacteria in our rivers, creeks, and streams. Studies have found that 20% of the bacteria contaminating some waterways can be traced back to the digestive system of dogs. So, what can we do?

Bagged dog waste from your property should be placed in the household trash for pick up during your regular trash day. Remember to make sure it is bagged appropriately to prevent odors or any other issues. Don’t walk your dog on private property, playgrounds, or where food is served. While on walks, carry disposable bags and pick up after your pet when out. If you hire a dog walker, please make sure they pick up after your pet when out on their daily walk. If walking your dog in the woodlands, please be responsible and pick up after your pet. When you pick up after your dog in the woodlands, please do not toss bagged poop into the woods. Please do not throw bagged pet waste in storm drains or just leave it on the ground.

Above all, don’t panic. Generally, you are never going to contract a disease from bacteria found in dog waste, if you and your family practice good hygiene and pick up after man’s best friend. Our dogs can be an unending source of love and affection. They cheer us up in the worst of circumstances and make our best days even more joyful. Our dogs are both terriers, 16-year-old Mollie and 9-year-old Jack, whom we love dearly. Our lives have been enriched beyond measure by their presence. My point today definitely is not against having a dog or dogs. Just be considerate of others who use our streets, parks and woodlands, by picking up after Fido and continue to enjoy walking your dog!