Contrary to widespread belief, pet waste does not biodegrade into healthy “fertilizer”. When left on the sidewalk or grass, rainwater washes pet waste through storm sewers and into nearby ponds, rivers, and lakes. As it decays and combines with warm water, pet waste uses oxygen and releases ammonia which can kill fish and other aquatic species.
Pet waste also contains dangerous bacteria, diseases, and pathogens such as E. coli and roundworms that can persist in soils and cause sickness in humans and animals. It also contains nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen that encourage aquatic weed and algae growth. Excessive growth makes water bodies cloudy and green and can cause unsafe situations for drinking water, aquatic ecosystems, and recreation such as swimming, boating, and fishing.
Don’t Poo-llute, Pick Up the Poop!
Pick up pet waste as soon as possible. Especially before a storm or snow event.
Put pet waste in the trash. Landfills are lined to protect from leakage.
Flush pet waste down the toilet. It will be separated during wastewater treatment and brought to the landfill.
Bury pet waste in the yard in a 5-inch deep hole or trench away from vegetable gardens and any lake, stream, ditch, or well. Microorganisms in the top layer of the soil will break down waste.
Use an underground pet waste digester that uses environmentally-friendly enzymes and bacteria to turn dog waste into a liquid that’s then absorbed into the ground.
Hang a pet waste bag holder off your mailbox. Support good behavior.