After cleaning up after your pet with a pooper scooper, what next? Yes, most pet owners don’t even know what to do with a bag of dog poop in their hands, and they end up making some not-so great decisions.
Well, in this article, we’ll discuss some of the best ways to properly dispose of dog waste after scooping it up. Read on:
Why Proper Disposal Even Matters
You might be guilty of disposing of dog poop in the yard, thinking it’ll break down. But the thing is dog waste isn’t fertilizer like cow or horse manure. Instead, it’s full of harmful bacteria and parasites like E. coli, roundworms and giardia.
If you throw them carelessly in your yard, it can contaminate water sources and even spread disease to other pets and people around. So it doesn’t end at just picking it up, how you dispose of it also matters.
The best way to dispose of dog waste
Trash it
This is the simplest and easiest method. You just put the dog waste in a bag and toss it in the trash. Here’s how to do it the right way:
- Use a biodegradable or dog-specific waste bag
- Double-bag it if you’re worried about smells or leakage
- Tie it up tight and throw it in your outdoor garbage bin
But avoid tossing it in your indoor trash to prevent bad odors in your kitchen.
Compost it
Dog waste can be composted, but it must be done in a separate, dedicated pet waste composting system. Do not mix it with your regular food or garden compost.
Once properly broken down, the compost can be used for non-edible plants and landscaping, but never on anything you plan to eat. This option is great if you have the space and patience.
Flush it
In some cities, you can actually flush dog waste. Wastewater treatment plants are designed to handle it as long as it’s not bagged.
- Never flush plastic or even biodegradable bags.
- Some brands sell flushable, water-soluble bags, so check your local regulations before using them.
This method is convenient and environmentally safe, just make sure it’s in compliance with your local laws.
Use a pet waste disposal service
Are you too busy to deal with your pet wastes? Well, some cities offer pet waste removal services that’ll scoop and dispose of it for you. In some neighborhoods, there are even designated pet waste bins you can use when you’re walking your dog. This method is clean and very convenient, especially if you have multiple pets.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t leave poop on the ground.
- Don’t toss unbagged waste into public bins.
- Don’t try to use it as fertilizer for your veggie garden.
Conclusion
The routine is easy; scoop, bag and dispose of it. The process you choose to dispose of depends on your preference and your local laws too (especially if you choose to flush it). Disposing of your dog waste helps you keep your yard clean and the environment safe.
