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Public Works & Utilities >> Surface Water Management >> Puget Sound Starts Here >> Pet Waste

What's the problem with pet waste?

It's a health risk to people, especially children.

Pet waste is full of bacteria that can make people sick. If it's washed into storm drains and ends up in a lake, stream or Puget Sound, the bacteria can end up in shellfish. People who eat those shellfish or drink contaminated water can get very sick.

Pet waste contains Roundworms, E.coli, Giardia and many other microorganisms that can be transmitted to humans. Some of these organisms can survive in the soil for years. Children who play in the yard and adults who garden are most at risk of infection.

Pierce County is home to more than 206,700 dogs. They produce more than 68,000 pounds, or 34 tons, of dog waste every day.

Dog waste is raw sewage - Scoop the poop, bag it, and place it in the trash

Am I going to pollute by putting dog waste in the landfill?

No, landfills have liners and treatment systems, so pollutants won't leach into the environment. We certainly want to reduce our waste stream to landfills wherever possible. When it comes to pet waste, however, there is no better alternative.

Burying pet waste in your yard may cause health problems. Some areas in Pierce County have groundwater close to the surface, which may allow pollutants to get into our drinking water.

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Can I put it in the compost bin or use it for fertilizer?

No. Pet waste left on the ground or put in a compost pile can contain harmful organisms for years. Most compost piles do not get hot enough to kill the bacteria and other organisms in dog and cat waste.

The safest method is to scoop it, bag it, and put it in the trash.

Contact Information:

Teresa Lewis
Education & Outreach Coordinator

253-798-2480

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