LAST LOOK

POOP HAPPENS. DEAL WITH IT.

We love dogs.

What we don’t love: when their humans are irresponsible about waste disposal. When not managed properly, dog feces can pollute water sources, spread disease, damage property and even violate local laws. Plus, it’s just plain gross!

So what can you do when some residents of your rental property refuse to pick up after their pups?

Installing signs and pet waste stations equipped with bags (look for biodegradable options) and bins is a smart step, as is designating a place for pets to do their business. When that’s not enough, consider enrolling in PooPrints (pooprints.com), a company that identifies “offenders” by DNA-matching unscooped poop with an individual pet in its DNA World Pet

Registry. Whatever you do, be sure to spell out your pet waste policy in your lease. Being clear about the rules and the penalties for breaking them is the best way to keep everybody out of the doghouse.