Taking care of our furry friends involves not only feeding and playing with them but also addressing their waste. Dog poop is a common issue that all dog owners must handle responsibly. Not only is it unsightly and unpleasant, but it also poses health and environmental risks if not properly managed. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore eight healthy and environmentally friendly ways to handle dog poop in your yard. By following these methods, you can ensure a clean and safe environment for both your pet and your family.
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The Importance of Properly Disposing of Dog Poop
Dog poop may seem harmless, but it can have significant implications for our health and the environment. When left on the ground, it decomposes and can eventually wash into water bodies, polluting them. Moreover, dog feces contain pathogens that can cause diseases in humans, such as roundworms, campylobacter, salmonella, parvovirus, and E.coli. These infections can be particularly dangerous for children and adults alike.
In urban areas, dog waste becomes a food source for rats and other rodents, which can lead to the spread of diseases like leptospirosis, typhus, and salmonellosis. Additionally, the sheer amount of dog waste released into the environment is staggering. With approximately 89.7 million dogs in the United States alone, producing around 18 billion pounds of poop each year, it is evident that proper disposal is crucial to prevent environmental contamination.
What To Do With Dog Poop In Yard
1. Trash The Poop
One of the most common methods of disposing of dog poop is by placing it in a bag and throwing it in the trash. However, it’s essential to choose biodegradable bags instead of regular plastic ones. Biodegradable bags are made partially with organic materials like cornstarch, which decompose more easily and are less harmful to the environment. Look for bags labeled as “compostable” for even better eco-friendliness. Double-bagging the poop can prevent any accidental messes.
2. Bury The Dog Poop
Another option is burying the dog poop in a hole approximately one foot deep. This method helps contain the bacteria and prevents it from reaching the soil surface. However, ensure that you choose a location away from your garden to avoid any contamination of edible plants. It’s essential to check your city council rules regarding burying waste to avoid damaging any buried lines. Keep in mind that heavy rainfall can wash some waste into local watersheds, so be cautious when using this method.
3. Flush The Poop Down the Toilet
Using the modern plumbing system to dispose of dog poop is a convenient and sanitary method. However, it’s crucial to use specially designed flushable bags instead of regular plastic bags. Regular plastic bags cannot be flushed, while flushable bags are specifically designed for this purpose. Brands like Petro offer recommended flushable poop bags that ensure proper disposal. Remember to tie the bag securely to prevent air from entering, and make sure you’re only flushing the poop, not any other debris.
4. Use a Dog Poop Disposal Service
If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can hire a dog poop disposal service. These services take care of removing the waste from your yard, relieving you of the task. Some environmentally conscious companies even turn the collected poop into compost. Companies like DoodyCalls and Poop 911 provide such services, offering convenience while ensuring proper waste management.
5. Install A Dog Waste Septic System
A dog waste septic system provides an alternative to traditional disposal methods. You can install systems like the Doggie Doo Drain, which allows you to wash the dog’s poop away. By attaching it to your sewer system, the waste is efficiently disposed of. This method eliminates the need for bags and offers an environmentally friendly solution. However, keep in mind that this system may not be suitable for very cold areas.
6. Adopt A Waste Containment System
Using a waste containment system allows for natural decomposition of dog poop, similar to a composter. Products like The Doggie Dooley 3000 Septic-Tank-Style Pet-Waste Disposal System are available for this purpose. These systems require the addition of digester powder, which contains natural bacteria and enzymes to break down the waste. You can bury the containment system in your yard, and over time, the waste will decompose. Alternatively, you can build your own waste containment system using a plastic garbage can with drilled holes and proper drainage.
7. Use A Waste Digester Bin To Store The Poop
A waste digester bin is an above-ground solution for composting dog poop. The Pet Waste Wizard BioBin is a popular product designed to turn poop into compostable material. The bin includes enzymes and bacteria that aid in decomposition. The design effectively minimizes odor while the waste breaks down into compost. This compost can be used for plants and flowers, excluding vegetables consumed raw.
8. Compost The Dog Poop
Composting dog poop provides a sustainable way to manage waste. Choose a suitable location in your backyard for a compost bin. Add dog poop and mix it with an equal amount of sawdust, chopped hay, shredded paper, or fallen leaves. Adjust the moisture level by adding a little water until the compost becomes moist but not soggy. Turn the mixture periodically to aerate it. Once you have enough compostable ingredients, cover the compost bin to help retain heat and speed up decomposition. However, it’s essential to avoid using the compost fertilizer on vegetable gardens to prevent any potential pathogen contamination.
Conclusion
Properly disposing of dog poop is a responsibility that comes with pet ownership. By implementing the methods discussed above, you can maintain a clean and healthy environment in your yard. Whether you choose to trash it, bury it, flush it, hire a disposal service, install a waste septic system, adopt a waste containment system, use a waste digester bin, or compost it, each method offers a way to minimize the environmental impact of dog waste. Remember, a clean yard is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to the overall health and well-being of your family and community.
Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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