Do you know the effects of dog poo in the sea?

Millions of people enjoy the British beaches each year, paddling in the sea or, if they are daring enough, going for a chilly swim!

To protect and advise the general public using the beaches the Environment Agency check the areas of the coast classified as bathing waters 20 times a year monitoring their water quality. They then report a result of either excellent, good, sufficient or fail on their website and at signage on the beach.

Did you know that dog poo has a significant effect on these results?

effects of dog poo in the sea

Not only is it unpleasant to find dog mess in the sea but the harmful bacteria in it can make those swimming and paddling sick. Also, if left on pavements inland it can also be washed into the sea during heavy rain.

As this bacteria affects the bathing water quality high volumes of dog poo increases the risk of the bathing water receiving a fail status, resulting in the location being withdrawn. This may have a bigger impact on the coastal economy relating to tourism and jobs.

LOVEmyBEACH is a campaign with a huge challenge: to work together to keep our local beaches and bathing waters clean. That is why we are speaking to as many responsible dog owners as possible to who can help promote this important message so we can all enjoy the beaches for generations to come. As always, please bag it and bin it when on the beach as the tide cannot wash away your dogs bad deeds.

dog poo in the sea

Leave a Comment