‘Scoop it!’ Neighbour’s cheeky sign targets messy dog owners

When a Perth homeowner's polite-yet-pointed yard sign about irresponsible dog owners went viral this week, it struck a chord with thousands of Australians dealing with the same infuriating problem. But what many don't realise is that this isn't just about courtesy or keeping lawns tidy—it's a serious health issue, particularly for older Australians.

The handwritten sign, stapled to a wooden post, read: We have you and your dog on camera, sadly! This morning I had to pick up three big s***s, which are now stinking up our bin until next bin day. Please be a more considerate and responsible dog owner! Ta.

More than just an eyesore

With over 6 million dogs across Australia's 28.7 million pets, and approximately 48 per cent of households owning dogs, this problem affects communities nationwide. But the issue goes far beyond unsightly messes on footpaths and front yards.

One gram of dog feces can contain up to 23 million fecal coliform bacteria. These bacteria, along with other parasites and pathogens, can cause a variety of illnesses in both humans and animals. For older Australians, who may have compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions, the risks are particularly concerning.

The serious health implications

For older Australians, pet ownership can improve their quality of life, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and slow down symptoms of dementia. However, encountering irresponsible pet ownership in their neighbourhood can pose real health threats.

Bacteria, such as E. coli, salmonella, and campylobacter, can also be present in dog waste and lead to severe illness, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. What's even more alarming is that some micro-organisms (such as Roundworms, E. coli, and Giardia) can persist and survive in your yard for up to four years if not picked up.

Research has also found concerning antibiotic-resistant bacteria in dog waste. Studies have isolated multi-drug resistant Enterococci and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from dog faecal samples. The presence of the resistant bacteria in an urban environment may represent a public health hazard which requires control measures by competent authorities.

What you're really up against

The Perth sign incident reflects a nationwide problem. Social media responses revealed this frustration is shared across Australia, with one commenter noting: 'After months of (dog poo) on my lawn, I finally caught the couple responsible. I asked them to pick it up and they went into full defensive mode instead of apologising'.

It is estimated that only about 60 per cent of dog owners consistently pick up their pet's poo, meaning a significant portion of Australia's dog-owning households aren't meeting their responsibilities.

The financial consequences

If you're considering following the Perth homeowner's example of calling out irresponsible dog owners, you should know the legal backing varies significantly across Australia.

In NSW, if your dog defecates in a public place or on someone else's property, you must remove the faeces immediately and dispose of it. If you do not clean up after your dog, you may be liable for a maximum penalty of $880. In Queensland, the penalty system uses units worth $166.90 each as of July 2025, while Perth typically issues $200 fines.

However, enforcement remains inconsistent. Many councils struggle with the practical challenges of catching offenders in the act and issuing fines.

Taking practical action

Rather than just complaining on social media, there are effective strategies for dealing with persistent problems in your neighbourhood.

The Perth homeowner's camera approach is increasingly common and effective. As one social media user suggested: 'Run an old telly out there with the footage on the loop', though a simpler security camera setup is more practical for most households.

Community education also plays a crucial role. Studies show that dog owners' knowledge plays a key role in preventing parasitoses among dogs, with dog owners aware of the threats canine GI parasites posed more likely to deworm their dogs and adequately dispose of dog waste.

The bigger picture

This issue extends beyond individual frustration to community health and environmental concerns. Dog waste is classified as a significant nonpoint source of water pollution by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Once in the water, the bacteria and parasites from dog waste can contaminate drinking water supplies and lead to harmful algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life.

For many older Australians who take pride in their neighbourhoods and maintain tidy properties, dealing with irresponsible dog owners can be particularly frustrating. The health risks make this more than just a courtesy issue—it's about community safety and wellbeing.

Moving forward

The Perth sign incident demonstrates that patience has limits when it comes to irresponsible pet ownership. While most of Australia's 48 per cent of households that own dogs are responsible, the minority who aren't can create significant problems for entire neighbourhoods.

The solution requires a combination of education, enforcement, and community action. Know your local council's procedures, document persistent problems, and don't hesitate to speak up about behaviour that affects community health and amenity.