The Hidden Dangers of Pet Waste
Why proper disposal matters for your family, pets, and community
The Truth About Pet Waste
Common Misconception
Many pet owners believe that dog waste is a natural fertilizer that can be collected into gardens or flower beds. This is false. Unlike herbivores like cows and horses whose waste makes excellent fertilizer, dogs are primarily carnivores, making their waste unsuitable and potentially harmful for soil enrichment.
Health & Environmental Hazards
Disease-Causing Bacteria
Dog waste carries harmful bacteria that can be transmitted directly to humans. Ringworm, roundworm, salmonella and giardia are common in dog feces and easily transferable upon contact.
Water Contamination
When it rains, untreated pet waste washes into storm drains and waterways, contaminating them with harmful bacteria and excess nutrients that can create excessive algae growth and harm aquatic life.
Soil Contamination
Concentrated pet waste can seriously harm soil quality. Roundworm, a common parasite found in dog waste, can remain infectious in contaminated soil and water for years, posing ongoing health risks.
Yard “Composting” Doesn't Work
Designating an area of your yard as a waste pile with the hope that it will decompose over time is ineffective and dangerous. This pile will continue to grow rather than disappear.
While composting dog waste is technically possible, it requires temperatures exceeding 165°F for approximately five days to safely sterilize the waste - conditions that most backyard compost systems never achieve.
Even properly composted dog waste should never be used on crops grown for human consumption according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
The Proper Solution
Regular Collection
Pet waste should always be picked up and removed from your property on a regular basis to prevent soil contamination and health hazards.
Proper Disposal
Double-bag waste and tie knots at the top of both bags to ensure proper sealing before placing in the garbage to be collected and taken to a landfill.
Professional Service
For a hands-off approach, professional pet waste removal services like Mountain State Scoops will handle the collection, removal, and disposal, keeping your yard clean and your family safe.
Keep Your Yard Clean & Your Family Safe
Let us handle the dirty work for you with regular, reliable pet waste removal.