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June 26, 2026
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July 6, 2026
Friendly Reminder to Clean Up After Your Dog(s)
Many of us are dog owners and love our furry friends. Having a dog comes with many pawsitive benefits, from encouraging outdoor exercise to boosting our overall mental and physical well-being. However, owning a dog also brings important responsibilities, including being a considerate neighbour and picking up after them.
RESPECT PRIVATE PROPERTY
It is natural for your dog to use the outdoors as their washroom, but please remember that private lawns, flower beds, and gardens are not public property.
Allowing your pet to wander into neighbours’ yards or gardens can damage sensitive landscaping and impacts areas where children frequently play. Please keep your pets on a short leash when passing homes and ensure they remain on the street or public right-of-way rather than on others’ private property.
PICK IT UP!
When your dog “does a doo,” it is vital to pick it up immediately and properly dispose of both the waste and the collection bag. Keeping our recreational areas, public sidewalks, and green spaces clean is a team effort. It also reduces the risk of spreading disease to people or other animals.
HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
Many people assume dog waste is safe, natural, and compostable, but it is not. Because most dogs eat highly processed diets, their waste is highly acidic and can damage soil, grass, plants, and local ecosystems.
According to the Canadian Animal Health Institute, the average dog produces almost 2.5 kilograms (5 pounds) of waste weekly. Left on the ground, dog waste can contain harmful bacteria (such as E. coli) and parasites that can penetrate the soil and make people or wildlife sick. Furthermore, uncollected waste can attract unwanted wildlife, including rodents and coyotes.
SIMPLE SOLUTIONS
The fix is easy!
- Be Prepared: Always bring dog waste bags with you when walking your pet.
- Dispose Properly: Place used bags in your household garbage or in one of the designated dog waste containers located throughout the Village (see enclosed map).
- Never Litter: Please do not leave filled waste bags on the ground or on top of utility boxes.
BY-LAW REMINDER
Failing to clean up after your pet is a fineable offense. Per the Animal Control By-law No. 52-2006 Section 3(8) and (9), no owner of an animal shall suffer or permit the animal to defecate on any property in the Village which is not the property of the owner. The owner of an animal shall immediately remove any feces left by the animal on the property.
Thank you for doing your part to keep New Maryland clean, safe, and respectful for everyone!
-mk.
