WHEN EXERCISING YOUR DOG IN TURLOCK:

1. Pick up all dog waste immediately

2. Carry a dog waste bag at all times

3. Keep your dog on a leash unless inside an official dog park

You can be cited and fined for not following these rules.

DID YOU KNOW:

· There are an estimated 74.8 million dogs owned in the United States, which create 72.5 billion pounds of dog waste every year!

· Just one gram of pet waste contains an average of 23 million fecal coliform bacteria. These bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal infections, as well as infections to the ear, eye, and throat in humans.

· When pet waste is tossed into a storm drain or left on the sidewalk, street or yard, it is carried by rainwater through the storm drain system directly into our local water bodies, without any treatment!

“DOO” THE RIGHT THING

FLUSH IT: The best way to dispose of pet waste is to flush it down the toilet. Just remember to remove the waste from the bag or the litter before putting it in the toilet.

SCOOP THE POOP: Bag it and put it in the black garbage cart. Landfills are designed to safely handle substances such as dog waste and cat litter.

It is against the law to permit animals to defecate on public or private property, unless the feces are removed immediately and disposed of properly. Be a responsible pet owner and a courteous neighbor by picking up after your pet.

For questions regarding pet ownership and proper pet waste disposal, contact Animal Services at (209) 656-3140. Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department.

WATER CONSERVATION TIP #119

Winter watering schedule in effect: The City’s Winter Watering Schedule currently allows watering one day per week. The Winter Watering Schedule began Nov. 1 and continues through Feb. 28. Even numbered addresses will be allowed to irrigate on Saturdays only and odd numbered addresses allowed to irrigate on Sundays only. Watering will continue to be prohibited between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.