Dog Poop Minefields on Chicago Sidewalks: Urban Apathy or Just the Norm?

Moved to River North from Boston a few months ago, and let me tell you—hopscotching through brown and yellow is a whole new skill I didn’t know I’d need.

I get that green space is limited in some areas, but come on. I just saw a pile that could only have been dropped by Scooby-Doo or Shaggy after an all-you-can-eat buffet.

At first, I thought it was just a River North/Streeterville thing, but then I was in Lakeview East yesterday and—yep—stepped in some. I was distracted 😭

To be fair, most owners make an effort, but has it always been this way? Has the city ever put up signs reminding people to pick up after their dogs? Maybe even threaten fines? A little public shaming might go a long way.

What’s the deal, Chicago? Is this just accepted this as part of city life, or is there hope for cleaner sidewalks?