Disease Transmission: Dog poop is a nasty waste that can transmit diseases to both humans and animals. It contains bacteria and parasites that can make you sick.
Pests: Dog poop can attract fleas and flies, which can lay their eggs in it. And can also invite rodents, which can smell the poop as a primary food source. The poop contains fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals that rats love to eat.
Grass Damage: Decomposing dog poop will literally destroy your grass leaving patches of yellow spots, which looks terrible to say the least. The unpleasantness of poop in the grass can and will be a nuisance for others such as a neighbor if they have to experience your yard.
It’s the Law
Class 4 Misdemeanor: Virginia State Code makes it illegal to fail to remove a dog’s excrement from public or private property. This means that failing to clean up after your pet is a crime, and the penalty is a fine. All it takes is for a neighbor to call the city and complain about the smell.
Typical Fine: The fine for a first offense is generally around $250.