Pet Waste

Pick Up Dog Poop, Bag It and Put it in the Trash

Pierce County is home to more than 206,000 dogs. They produce more than 68,000 pounds, or 34 tons, of dog waste every day. Dog waste is raw sewage - pick up pet waste, bag it, and put it in the trash.

Landfills are designed to handle pet waste safely. Yards, trails, streets, parks, toilets, and compost piles are not for dog waste. Remember to take a bag with you on walks, or use the dog waste stations in common areas. At home, daily pick up is best.

Free Dog Waste Stations Available

Can I use pet waste as compost or fertilizer?

NO. Pet waste left on the ground or put in a compost pile can contain harmful organisms. 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 pick it up, bag it, and put it in the trash.

Can I flush pet waste down the toilet?

NO. Do not flush pet waste down the toilet. Animal waste contains different pathogens than humans and is not fully treated in the wastewater treatment process. According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, bacteria from dog poop can end up in shellfish. People who eat those shellfish can get very sick. The bacteria can also make water unsafe to drink or to swim in. Nutrients from dog poop can also feed the growth of aquatic plants and algae. As these decay, they use up oxygen in the water that fish and other aquatic life need.

What is the problem with pet waste?

Pet waste is a health risk to people, especially children. It is full of bacteria that can make people sick. 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. Pet waste contains roundworms, E.coli, giardia and many other microorganisms that can be transmitted to people.

If it's washed through storm drains and into a lake, stream or Puget Sound, the bacteria can end up in fish and shellfish. People who eat contaminated shellfish or drink the water can get very sick.