Pet Waste & The Environment

When your pet goes on the lawn, remember it doesn't just go on the lawn. When our pets leave those little surprises, rain washes all that pet waste and bacteria into our storm drains. And then pollutes our waterways. So what to do? Simple, dispose of it properly then that little surprise gets treated like it should.

What's the problem with pet waste?
Droppings from dogs and cats and from other commonly kept animals like exotic birds, rabbits, goats, and chickens may contain bacteria, parasites, or viruses that are a health risk to other pets and people, especially children. It's a nuisance in our neighborhoods. If it's washed into a storm drain and ends up in Lake Erie or the Cuyahoga River, the bacteria can contaminate shellfish. People who swim in polluted water or eat these contaminated shellfish can get very sick.

Animal droppings also contain nutrients that can promote the growth of algae if they enter streams, rivers and lakes. The risk of storm water contamination increases if pet waste are allowed to accumulate in animal pen areas or left on sidewalks, streets, or driveways where runoff can carry them to storm sewers. Unless people properly dispose of pet waste, following the laws or ordinances established by their communities, these pet wastes enter our waters without treatment.

Why do we need clean water?
Clean water is of vital importance for our health, economy, and environment. It exists in very limited supply, and yet, provides us with drinking water, wildlife habitats, opportunities for commerce and recreation, and adds beauty in our landscape, not to mention economic value. All of us benefit from clean water - and all of us have a role in keeping our lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater clean. Ordinary activities around the home, like cleaning up after a pet, can make a difference.

• Storm water carries pet waste and other pollutants directly into waterways.
• Animal waste adds nitrogen to the water. Excess nitrogen depletes the water's oxygen, which is necessary for healthy underwater grasses, wildlife and fish.
• Animal waste may contain harmful organisms such as Giardia, Salmonella and E. coli that can be transmitted to humans and other animals by ingesting contaminated water.
• Roundworms and hookworms deposited by infected animals can live in the soil for a long time and be transmitted to other animals and humans.
• It's the law! Many urban and suburban areas require you to pick up after your pet. Even if there is no restriction, cleaning up after your pet is the right thing to do.
• Those with physical limitations; which make it difficult or impossible to clean-up after their dog.
• Let's face it - no one likes to step in pet waste and spread it into homes, cars and businesses.
• Hiring an animal waste specialist will save you time and the headache of arguing about who in the family is going to clean it up.
• Apartment and Town Home Communities that are looking for a solution to their dog waste problem.
• Your neighbors will appreciate the good manners!