Pet ownership brings joy, but also responsibilities. Unfortunately, a common issue in many residential communities is uncollected dog waste, which creates health hazards, unpleasant odors, and damages community spaces. If you are a property manager or board member struggling with this problem, a well-crafted letter to residents can serve as an important first step towards a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Sample Letter Template

Dear Residents,

We are writing to address a growing concern within our community regarding dog waste that is not being properly disposed of. While we appreciate our dog-loving residents, it's important to remember that pet ownership comes with the responsibility of properly cleaning up after our furry friends.

Why This Matters

• Health Hazards: Dog feces can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that pose a risk to humans, especially children and those with compromised immune systems.
• Unpleasant Environment: Uncollected dog waste is unsightly, creates unpleasant odors, and makes our shared spaces less enjoyable for everyone.
• Property Damage: Dog waste can damage lawns and landscaping, creating an added expense for maintenance.

Reminder of Our Policies

Our community rules [or lease agreement] clearly state that all pet owners are required to:

• Carry waste bags at all times when walking their dogs.
• Immediately clean up after their pet.
• Dispose of waste in designated trash receptacles.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

To ensure a healthy and pleasant community for everyone, failure to comply with these policies may result in warnings or fines [if your rules allow for this].

Your Cooperation is Appreciated

We understand that the vast majority of pet owners are responsible. Thank you for working together to keep our community clean and enjoyable for all residents, both two-legged and four-legged!

Sincerely,

[Your Name/Property Management]

References

• CDC - Healthy Pets, Healthy People: https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/
• Sample Pet Policies (consider adapting these to fit your specific needs): 

Additional Considerations

• Tone: Keep the letter respectful yet firm. Focus on emphasizing shared community values and the benefits of a clean environment.
• Solutions: Consider providing designated pet waste stations with bags and trash bins if they are not already available.
• Follow-up: If the problem persists, you may need to consider additional measures like surveillance or DNA testing of dog waste (offered by some companies).

Let me know if you'd like help customizing this letter for your specific community!