It’s Storm Season in Maryland, Here’s What Pet Owners Should Know

If you’ve been dealing with the nonstop rain this August in Central Maryland, you’re not alone. Flooded streets, soggy lawns, and overflowing gutters have been a common sight. But there’s another issue that storms can make worse and it’s one many pet owners haven’t thought much about: the impact of dog poop on our local water systems.

Yep, pet waste is more than just a backyard nuisance, it’s a real threat to our waterways.

Let’s Talk About Stormwater Runoff

When it rains, water flows over hard surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and lawns collecting debris, chemicals, and yes, pet waste. This mix of pollution is called stormwater runoff, and in our area, it often ends up in the Chesapeake Bay.

That’s a big deal.

The Bay already faces challenges from nutrient pollution, and dog poop is one of the contributors, especially when storms hit after dry weather.

What’s in Dog Poop That Makes It So Harmful?

Dog waste can carry all sorts of pathogens, including:

• Bacteria and viruses that are dangerous to people and animals

• Parasites like roundworms and hookworms

• Excess nutrients that throw off aquatic ecosystems

Just one gram of dog poop can contain over 23 million fecal bacteria. During a storm, all of that can get washed into our local streams, parks, and eventually into the Bay.

Central Maryland Is Especially Vulnerable

From Ellicott City to Columbia and beyond, many of our neighborhoods have aging infrastructure that’s easily overwhelmed by heavy rain. That’s why local governments and groups like Blue Water Baltimore and Howard County Watershed Stewards Academy are working hard to reduce stormwater pollution.

Still, they can’t do it without your help.

Here’s How You Can Help

The good news? It’s really easy to be part of the solution:

• Scoop the poop—every time. Yes, even in your own backyard.

• Use sealed bags and throw waste in the trash (not the storm drain!).

• Do a yard check before big storms.

• If you’re part of a community association, consider installing pet waste stations. We provide and maintain them across Central Maryland.

Let’s Protect the Bay Together

At DoodyCalls of Central Maryland, we believe that cleaner yards lead to cleaner water. Whether we’re scooping poop or installing pet waste stations, we’re helping local homeowners take care of their corner of the watershed.

Want to do your part too? Schedule a service or talk to us about how we can help your property stay stormwater-smart.

Because when the rain comes down, what’s on the ground matters.