Water bottles on the streets and doors of the house have become a visible habit in various locations, both rural and urban. At first glance it may seem strange, but this custom has a curious explanation: to prevent dogs and cats from doing their needs in unwanted places.
According to the Spanish newspaper As, simple and low cost, emerged as an alternative to the use of chemicals such as sulfur or sodium carbonate, common in rural areas in the past. These products released strong smells that pushed the animals away, but brought serious risks to people, especially to children, and were eventually banned.
From hazardous chemicals to safe solutions
Sulfur, for example, had a yellow color that caught the attention of the little ones and caused injuries in contact with the skin. Given these risks, the population sought a safer way to deal with the problem and found in water bottles an effective and harmless solution.
The idea is simple: placing full bottles or carboys next to the doors or corners frequented by the animals. It is believed, the reflection of light on the water creates a visual effect that dogs and cats tend to avoid, removing them without causing any damage.
The reflection that bothers
The explanation, although not scientifically proven, has advocates in the veterinarian. Antonio Rubio, president of the Salamanca Veterinarians College, told the same source that “we do not know if it is really effective, but it is certain that dogs can scare because they see if they are reflected or because the sun causes reflection in the water and, like doves, are bothered and scared.”
In addition to removing animals, the technique avoids the use of harmful methods for public health and the environment. With reused bottles, the environmental impact is also reduced.
The arrival in cities
If before it was overcoat used in villages and small locations, today the practice has spread to urban centers. With the increase in the circulation of street animals, many residents resort to this strategy to maintain hygiene at the door.
Despite doubts about its effectiveness, the solution remains popular with simplicity and security. For many families, it is preferable to try a harmless technique to deal with the cleaning problems and smells that animal residues can cause.
Tradition adapted to today
The placement of water bottles thus became a practical response to a daily problem. More than a rural habit, it has become an urban measure of coexistence, where tradition and innovation are, according to the.
Small gestures make a difference
Practice shows how simple, low -cost solutions can often respond to modern challenges, helping to keep more clean and pleasant public streets and spaces for everyone.
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