Keeping our environment clean and safe is a responsibility we all share, and as a pet owner, that responsibility extends to managing your pet’s waste properly. In this article, we’re going to explore the do’s and don’ts of disposing dog poop.
The Environmental Impact of Dog Waste
Firstly, let’s understand why it’s essential to dispose of dog waste correctly. Dog waste is more than just a nuisance. When it’s not disposed of properly, it can become a health hazard and impact the environment negatively.
Dog poop contains harmful bacteria and parasites that can spread diseases to humans and other animals. It also contributes to water pollution. When left on the ground, rain can wash it into storm drains, which often lead directly to rivers, lakes, or the ocean.
The Do’s of Dog Poop Disposal
Pick it Up Immediately
The best way to avoid the negative impacts of dog waste is to clean it up immediately. Always have a bag on hand during walks to scoop up your pet’s waste.
Use Biodegradable Bags
Consider using biodegradable bags for picking up dog waste. These bags are made from plant-based materials that can decompose naturally, reducing plastic waste in the environment.
Flush It
If local regulations allow, flushing dog waste down the toilet is a great disposal method. Sewage systems or septic tanks can treat dog waste in the same way as human waste.
Compost It
You can compost dog waste, but it should be done separately from your regular compost pile and never used on food crops to avoid any risk of disease transmission.
The Don’ts of Dog Poop Disposal
Don’t Leave it
Never leave dog waste on the ground, even in your own backyard. The harmful bacteria and parasites in dog waste can survive for long periods and can be harmful to humans and other pets.
Don’t Use Regular Plastic Bags
Regular plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose. If dog waste is placed in these bags, they end up in landfills and contribute to plastic pollution.
Don’t Throw it in Regular Trash
Dog waste is not regular trash. In many areas, it’s illegal to dispose of pet waste in household trash.
Don’t Compost for Food Gardens
Never use dog waste compost for gardens that grow food. Dog waste can contain harmful parasites like roundworms that are not eliminated during the composting process.
At the Department of Doody, we understand the importance of responsible pet waste disposal. We offer a variety of services to help manage pet waste in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. By following the do’s and don’ts of disposing of dog poop, you can contribute to a cleaner, safer environment for everyone. Contact us today!
