Trying to figure out what to do with dog poop until garbage day is challenging. It’s one that most dog owners face. Unfortunately, the problem is not just gross, it’s also tricky to solve. You may find yourself looking for practical solutions that often don’t work. Inevitably, you need to find effective methods to address the problems of managing your pup’s waste.
If it’s not properly contained, dog poop can lead to stains and lingering smells that are difficult to remove. Finding effective ways to tackle these issues becomes crucial for dog owners seeking a clean and odor-free environment.
To best answer your questions, we have consulted our expert source, The Pet Poo Pocket Guide: How to Safely Compost and Recycle Pet Waste by Rose Seemann. So, read on as we look at what you can do with dog poop until garbage day.
So, What to Do With Dog Poop Until Garbage Day?
Options for disposing of dog poop until garbage day include hiring a pet waste removal service, utilizing a designated dog waste bin, and double-bagging and storing it. You can also use a dog poop composter or a pet waste station. In deciding on the best option, check local bylaws and home owner’s association policies.
Let’s explore and expand on some of the best ideas on What to Do With Dog Poop Until Garbage Day?
Remember, if you notice any changes in your dog’s poop, such as the poop turning red or green, make sure to consult your vet. Also see our article on what to do if your dog is eating poop, or if your dog’s pee is orange.
11 Recommendations for What to Do With Dog Poop Until Garbage Day
The most practical answers for handling dog poop between garbage collection days include:
1. Flush it Down the Toilet
If you have a small dog and not too much waste to get rid of, then scoop the dog poop into a biodegradable bag and flush it down the toilet. It’s a convenient option and ensures the hygiene of your home.
2. Use a Dog Waste-Digesting System
Invest in a dog waste disposal system specifically designed for proper waste management. These systems typically include a dedicated container with a tight-sealing lid to contain the waste until garbage day. Remember to always keep dog waste bags on hand for proper dog poop disposal.
3. Bury it in Your Yard
Dig a small hole in your yard away from vegetable gardens and water sources, place the dog poop in it, and cover it with soil. This option allows for natural decomposition over time.
4. Use a Dog Poop Septic System
Install a dog poop septic system in your yard that operates similarly to a regular septic tank. The waste is broken down naturally, and the system requires periodic maintenance.
5. Hire a Pet Waste Removal Service (If You Prefer Not to Handle Dog Poop, Consider Hiring a Pet Waste Removal Service)
These companies specialize in cleaning up and disposing of dog waste.
6. Utilize a Designated Dog Waste Bin
Install a designated dog waste bin on your property. Empty the waste into the bin, which will be collected by the waste management service on garbage day.
7. Double-Bag and Store It
Place the dog waste in two sealed, biodegradable bags and store it in a designated outdoor container or secure area until garbage day. This option helps contain odor and prevents contamination.
8. Freeze Until Garbage Day
Place the dog poop in a dedicated freezer-safe container or bag and store it in a separate, unused freezer until trash pickup day. Freezing helps control odor and inhibits bacterial growth.
9. Use a Dog Poop Composter
Install a specialized dog poop composter in your yard with special compost bin for dog poop so that it doesn’t end up in the landfill. These systems allow for the aerobic decomposition of the waste and produce nutrient-rich compost that can be used on non-edible plants. You can collect the poo in compostable bags to turn them into fertilizer for your garden. The video below shows how to make a DIY dog poo composter for your own home.
10. Drop it Off at a Pet Waste Station
Some communities have pet waste stations where you can deposit bagged dog waste. These stations have waste disposal bins, making it a convenient and responsible option.
11. Convert it to Energy
Explore innovative options such as dog waste bio-digesters, which convert poop into energy sources like biogas. These methods require specialized infrastructure, and it’s only practical if you also have livestock or other animals. So this may be worth investigating if you are a homesteader or a farmer.
Note: Check your local regulations and guidelines for specific recommendations on dog waste disposal. Some areas may have designated disposal methods or restrictions in place.
Why Properly Disposing of Dog Poop is Important
- Environmental protection: Proper disposal of dog poop prevents contamination of soil and water bodies.
- Disease prevention: It helps reduce the spread of harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause illnesses in humans and other animals.
- Community cleanliness: Disposing dog poop keeps public spaces clean and sanitary for everyone to enjoy.
- Odor control: Proper disposal eliminates foul odors from accumulated dog waste.
- Water quality maintenance: It prevents the contamination of water sources, ensuring clean and safe drinking water for both humans and animals.
- Pest control: Proper disposal discourages pests like flies and rats from being attracted to the area due to decaying waste.
- Avoiding slip and fall accidents: Removing dog poop from sidewalks and pathways reduces the risk of people slipping and injuring themselves.
- Preservation of your lawn: Proper disposal prevents dog waste from damaging grass.
- Minimizing the spread of bacteria: By disposing of dog poop, you reduce the risk of bacteria being tracked into homes on shoes or paws.
- Avoiding legal consequences: Many communities have regulations that require pet owners to clean up after their dogs, and failure to do so can result in fines or penalties.
- Public health: Proper disposal decreases the likelihood of pathogens from dog waste entering the human food chain through contaminated soil or water.
- Maintenance of dog-friendly spaces: By disposing of dog poop, you help maintain dog-friendly parks and recreational areas that allow pets to be enjoyed by all.
- Preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases: Zoonotic diseases can be transmitted between animals and humans, and proper disposal helps reduce the risk of transmission.
- Educational opportunity: Practicing responsible pet waste disposal allows for educational opportunities to teach others about the importance of cleanliness and environmental stewardship.
Guidelines for Disposing of Dog Poop on Garbage Day
- Use a dedicated waste bag: Scoop the dog waste using a dedicated waste bag or a pooper scooper designed for this purpose.
- Place in a lidded trash can: Put the securely tied waste bags into a trash can or a designated dog waste bin. This prevents animals from accessing the waste and helps control odor.
- Follow local regulations: Check your local waste management regulations to ensure compliance with any specific guidelines regarding dog waste disposal. Some areas may require specific bag types or disposal methods.
- Do not overfill the garbage bin: Avoid overfilling the trash can or bin with dog waste, as it can lead to spillage or difficulty handling during collection.
- Minimize environmental impact: Whenever possible, opt for biodegradable waste bags to reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal.
- Wash your hands: After handling and disposing of dog waste, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to maintain proper hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some outdoor pet waste disposal options?
If you’re looking for outdoor pet waste disposal options, you can use a dog waste station, which typically includes a dog poop bag dispenser and a trash can. You can also use a pet waste removal service that comes to your home and removes the waste.
Is it illegal to dispose of dog poop in the garbage?
It is not illegal to put dog poop in regular garbage as long as it is properly bagged and sealed. However, specific regulations may vary depending on your local area. Check with your local waste management authorities for any specific guidelines or restrictions.
How to dispose of dog poop without generating unpleasant odors
Ensure you use waste bags specifically designed to control and contain odors. Double-bagging can provide an extra layer of odor containment. After securely sealing the bags, place them in a lidded waste container such as a trash can or designated dog waste bin to trap odors.
Conclusion
Managing dog poop until garbage day can be challenging and unpleasant for dog owners. Finding effective methods to address this issue is important. It is vital that you manage dog poop hygienically.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.