If you have a dog, one of the things you need to include on your to-do-list daily is PICK UP THE HEAPERS.

If you thought you were just doing it to keep the neighbourhood aesthetically pleasing, think again. Bacteria from dog faeces is blowing in the wind……..

It’s a “bugs” world

Scientists have known for years that the air we breathe is definitely not sterile – it is loaded with bugs (bacteria, fungi and viruses).

Most of the “bugs” riding the air waves are harmless, but a few are capable of causing health problems. Studies have implicated air borne bacteria in asthma attacks and seasonal allergies, but little is known about these guys.

Who is in the air ?

Researches from the University of Colorado wanted to make the acquaintance of these air borne bacteria who live among us.

Air samples were collected from 3 American cities and one small town during summer and winter months. The DNA in the air samples was analyzed to determine

• how many bacteria were present
• which bacteria were present

NOTE : DNA sampling ensures that all the “bugs” are “seen”.

Every breath you take, includes a lung full of bacteria

The researchers confirmed that we share our air with a range of “bugs” and that each city has its own culture.

A doggie atmosphere

The researchers then asked where do these guys come from ?

They compared the air sample residents with the bacteria typically found on leaf surfaces, in the soil, in lakes and seas and on human, cow and dog faeces.

Disturbingly in two of the cities, particularly during the winter months, the major guys swirling around in the air looked pretty much the same as the guys that hang out on dog pooh.

PS. I won’t broadcast the locations of the two dog dooh cities – don’t want to create a panic.

Dog dooh may be good for you

The idea that the air you’re breathing is laced with bacteria that are wafting off Fido’s pooh is not particularly appealing, but it might not actually be that bad for you……….

Bacteria help keep the airways open holding back asthma

But if you’re feeling a bit turned off – let this story serve as motivation to grab the poop scoop and pick it up !

Sources of bacteria in outdoor air across cities in the midwestern United States. Applied and Environmental Microbiology (2011) 77(18): 6350-6356.   M. Bowers, A. P. Sullivan, E. K. Costello, J. L. Collett, R. Knight, N. Fierer.

  

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Further reading

Little girls need to wallow in dirt to grow up healthy	How does your body know who the good bacteria are ?	Hailstones are bacteria  enjoying a game of tag

The 7 Big Spoons™…. are master switches that turn health on.

Balance Eicosanoids	Rein in insulin	Dial down stress	Sleep !	Increase Vit D	Culivate microflora	Think champion

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Did you learn something new or do you have a different perspective ? I’d love to hear from you so post me a comment below…..