08/15/2026
Lake Country, we need to talk about the dog p**p problem.
Check out the video below. You have to see it to believe it. Although, if you’re out walking our trails and parks, you’ve probably already seen it for yourself.
We took a bike ride around Lake Country today and were honestly shocked by what we saw. We actually had to go back and walk some of the spots just so we could show you what we were seeing.
This video is along Lodge Road and down the Rail Trail, and it’s just one small stretch of our community.
Pile after pile after pile.
We notice dog waste more than most because this is what we do for a living, but we also regularly see residents talking about the same issue on local Facebook groups.
And this isn’t just about keeping our beautiful trails and public spaces clean. Dog waste can create hazards for people and other dogs, contribute to the spread of bacteria, parasites and illness, and when left behind, rain can carry contaminants into storm drains and eventually into our waterways.
Lake Country already has a bylaw requiring dog owners to immediately pick up and properly dispose of their dog’s waste. Failing to pick up after your dog can result in a $150 municipal ticket.
But honestly, when you see the amount of dog waste being left throughout our community, it makes you wonder whether enough is being done to address the problem.
Ultimately, responsibility goes both ways. As dog owners, we all need to step up and do our part. At the same time, we think there needs to be a conversation about what more can be done to keep our public spaces clean.
So we want to hear from our Lake Country neighbours.
Have you noticed this in your neighbourhood? Have you encountered piles while walking the Rail Trail or other trails? Has dog waste affected your experience at a local park, beach or other community space?
Tell us where you’re seeing it. We want to hear your experiences.
TAIL END is a small, local, family run business right here in Lake Country. Last year, we volunteered our services to clean up the dog beach at Okanagan Centre, and the District was kind enough to recognize our efforts.
We were happy to help then, and we’re still happy to help now.
But it’s clear that this is much bigger than a one time volunteer cleanup.
We would genuinely love the opportunity to work with the District of Lake Country, even through an ongoing contracted cleanup service, to help keep our trails, parks and public spaces cleaner and safer for everyone.
We’re posting this because this is our community too. We aren’t looking to shame responsible dog owners. We’re looking to start a conversation about a problem that is clearly visible, that residents are already talking about, and that we believe has a practical local solution.
Lake Country, what are you seeing?
Justin Ziegler & Kyrstin Schultz
TAIL END
“Your dog’s business is our business.”
District of Lake Country
Council Members:
Mayor, Blair Ireland
Tricia Brett
Heather Irvine
Michael Lewis
Todd McKenzie
Bib Patel
Cara Reed
