Pet waste is more than an unsightly and smelly problem in our neighborhoods. It is a water pollutant that poses a health risk to pets, creeks, lakes and people, especially children. Pet waste left on trails, sidewalks, streets and grassy areas may be flushed into the storm drainage system by rain or melting snow. In Prescott, the storm drainage system flows to the nearest creek, carrying polluted runoff into those water bodies.
What’s the Problem with Pet Waste?
When pet waste is washed into creeks or lakes, the waste decays, uses up oxygen and sometimes releases ammonia. Low oxygen levels and ammonia combined with warm temperatures can kill fish.
Nutrients in pet waste are harmful to water quality by fueling the growth of weeds and algae in lakes and rivers. This turns the water green, cloudy and unappealing for boating and fishing.
Most importantly, bacteria and pathogens in pet waste can cause illness in people and pets that drink or come in contact with contaminated water. Salmonella, E. coli, Giardia and Toxoplasma are a few of the pathogens that can be transmitted from pet waste. Pets, children who play outside, and adults who garden are most at risk for infection from some of the bacteria and parasites found in pet waste.
Make a Difference: Pick Up Where Your Pet Left Off
Pet waste may not be largest or most toxic pollutant in the urban waterways, but it is a source of pollution that adds up to a big problem. Fortunately, there are simple things that we can all do to help keep our water clean.
To keep pet waste out of local waters, clean up after your pet every single time, on walks, in the yard and around town. Look for complimentary waste bags in dispensers at local parks and trails. Carry extra bags when you are walking your pet and share them with other pet owners who are without. Keep extra bags in your car so you are prepared when traveling with your pet.
What should you do with the waste that you pick up? There are several options:
- Flush it. The best option is to scoop it up and flush it down the toilet (not in a bag). The waste will be treated by our community sewage treatment plant or your septic system, killing the bacteria and getting rid of the nutrients.
- Toss it (in the trash). Seal the waste in a plastic bag and throw it in the garbage.
- Bury it. Bury small quantities in your yard where it can decompose slowly. Be sure that it is at least six inches deep and away from gardens and water sources. Microorganisms in the top layer of soil will break down the waste and release nutrients to fertilize nearby plants. Don’t add pet waste to your compost pile. The pile won’t get hot enough to kill disease-causing organisms.
Tell your friends and neighbors about the harmful effects of animal waste on the environment and encourage them to pick up where their dog left off!
For more tips on how to Be Watershed Smart, visit www.prescott-az.gov/watershedsmart. QCBN
Amanda Richardson, CMS4S, is the environmental coordinator for the City of Prescott.