In Airdrie, bylaws demand that the owner of a dog must clean up after the dog leaves waste in a public space, however its becoming more and more common that the waste is being left on the ground.

In dog parks and along neighborhood sidewalks, dog waste that is left can result in a unpleasant surprise for locals on a walk.

Local dog owner Ashley Callahan says seeing dog waste left on the ground almost ruins her walks with her dog.

"(I see it) at the dog park and also on walks. I don't enjoy my dog stepping in it or eating it. I don't enjoy stepping in it either."

On top of being unpleasant, dog waste can carry bacteria and viruses that can spread to other dogs if the dog consumes or smells the waste. An unvaccinated dog is in danger of catching viruses like the parvo virus. Callahan says the best way to avoid the danger is to get your dog vaccinated.

"If (your dog) isn't vaccinated, don't go to a public park."

Callahan's own dog has a habit of consuming waste left by other canines, so she says she must keep a careful eye out at all times.

"Obviously, we try to make them stop. (We try) to keep an eye on them. We live in the country and there are other (dogs) there too. It's not enjoyable, and it doesn't make their breath smell nice either. Or their faces."

Callahan suggests that anyone who has a dog out in public to have doggy bags on them for any accidents.

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