Here’s the Poop! Effective December 22, 2003, pet owners must pickup their pets’ poop when not on their own property.   The Houston City Council passed this ordinance in mid-December, along with an ordinance to begin research plans for an official dog park for the city.   If a pet owner is caught not picking up the poop they may be fined $75-$300.  It will be hard to enforce this ordinance, but the time has come, and it is the right thing to do.  I know a lot of us pet owners don’t care, but some folks do get offended and we should respect their wishes and now their right to a “poop-free” zone. Picking up poop is really no big deal and is another great use for those plastic grocery bags.  Take one (or two) along with you wherever you go and when dooty calls slip your hand in and scoop, then turn the bag inside out and tie in a knot.  You don’t touch anything and really don’t smell anything.  A clever friend of mine slips a piece of newspaper under her dog when it squats.  The poop hits the newspaper and is tossed in the bag.  There are also lots of cute attachments for leashes that hold bags available at pet stores. The dogs are going to have to adjust to this new ordinance also; after all, snooping poop has been a popular sport.  But there are still water hydrants and light poles and don’t forget the ever-exciting Monday trash night. Dooty and duty, it ain’t no big deal!