Stormwater home page City of Los Angeles home page
      Department of Public Works Bureau of Sanitation

Volume I, Issue IV
Dogs and their owners learn about the dangers of unattended dog waste.

Today's Scoop: Dog Waste Stinks!

You may think that dog waste left on the ground is a nuisance and an eyesore. However, did you know that when people don’t pick up after their dogs they are putting other pets and even the health of beach-goers and aquatic life at great risk?

The City of Los Angeles Stormwater program has taken the initiative to address the problem throughout the city, educating dog owners about the importance of picking up after their pets to decrease the risk of pet disease and water pollution. One way that the Stormwater Program has reached dog owners is by teaming up with local dog trainers to conduct hands-on presentations.

In this past year, the program was able to conduct presentations and distribute educational materials and free dog waste bags to more than 500 dog owners.

“I can’t tell you how much the students and trainers appreciate the program," says dog trainer Karen Taylor of My Best Friend Obedience in Van Nuys. “After the stormwater/pet waste presentation, I see my students actually using the free bags they get! This program is near and dear to us here.”
Unattended dog waste can infect other dogs with diseases such as Canine Parvovirus and Canine Distemper. These illnesses can cause dogs to have partial or total paralysis, irreparable nerve damage, vomiting and diarrhea. Eventually, if the waste is not picked up and disposed properly, it can be washed into our storm drain system where this toxic mixture of fecal matter and urban runoff then flows untreated to the ocean.

You make the difference! If you’re interested in scheduling a presentation, please e-mail the City’s Stormwater Program at lastormwater@lacity.org.

Educator, Josh Frank, demonstrates to a group of dog owners how to properly dispose of dog waste.
OTHER ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE: Manager's Message | Elmer Avenue | Sun Valley Flooding | Downspout Disconnection Program

Subscribe to this e-Newsletter