It’s a gross subject, but it’s part of managing a pet-friendly property: dogs poop, and some owners don’t pick it up.
We’ve all shown a property to a prospect and had to dodge piles of dog waste. It’s embarrassing, it stinks, and it’s even worse when someone steps in it. It also tells prospects what they might expect management to tolerate. And abandoned dog waste can create health risks for other dogs. Canine parvovirus spreads through contact with infected feces or contaminated environments, and it can remain infectious for months or longer in favorable conditions. (merckvetmanual.com, vet.cornell.edu)
That’s why I signed my properties up for PooPrints, a dog DNA waste management program. Each resident with a dog pays a $50 DNA test fee per pet. The dog’s cheek swab creates a DNA profile, and when waste is found on the property, it can be collected and submitted to the lab for comparison with the registered profiles. (pooprints.com)
Property owners can set their own enforcement amounts, consistent with their lease and applicable requirements. At Turn Key, the first fine is $400. The second is $750. A third violation results in a notice to vacate for the resident and Fido. By that point, it’s repeated disregard for the rules and for the community they chose to live in.
A clean property matters. Residents shouldn’t have to dodge waste in the common areas, and prospects shouldn’t get the impression that nobody is paying attention. A clear policy, DNA testing, and consistent enforcement give responsible pet owners a cleaner place to live and help owners protect the appearance and reputation of their property.
#PooPrints