Protecting Water and the Environment
Most people think the problem with pet waste ends in the backyard—but that's rarely where it stays.
When it rains, stormwater flows across lawns, sidewalks, driveways, and streets, carrying pollutants with it. Unlike wastewater from sinks and toilets, stormwater entering municipal storm drains is generally not treated before being discharged into nearby creeks, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Anything left on the ground—including pet waste—can be transported directly into these waterways.
Dog waste contains more than just organic material. It can harbor harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter, as well as parasites capable of surviving in soil for months. When these pathogens are washed into streams and lakes, they can reduce water quality, increase health risks for people and wildlife, and contribute to closures of recreational waters after periods of heavy rainfall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend that dog owners always pick up and properly dispose of pet waste—even in their own yards—to reduce the spread of disease and protect the environment.
Pet waste also contains significant amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus. While these nutrients are essential for plant growth, excessive amounts entering lakes and rivers can fuel harmful algal blooms. These blooms consume dissolved oxygen as they decompose, creating "dead zones" where fish and other aquatic organisms struggle to survive. Some species of algae also produce toxins that can make pets, wildlife, livestock, and people seriously ill after contact with contaminated water.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies stormwater runoff as one of the nation's leading sources of water pollution and encourages communities to educate residents about proper pet waste disposal as part of municipal stormwater management programs. Something as simple as picking up after your dog is considered an effective form of pollution prevention because it stops harmful bacteria and nutrients from entering the stormwater system before the next rainfall.
For homeowners, the solution couldn't be simpler: remove pet waste promptly and dispose of it properly. For busy families or those with multiple dogs, a professional pet waste removal service helps ensure that this important task is handled consistently. The result is a cleaner yard, healthier waterways, and one less source of pollution affecting your community.
As your dog might put it:
"I love splashing in the creek. Let's keep my... other contributions... out of it."
Sources
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Nutrients and Water Quality.
https://www.usgs.gov/mission-areas/water-resources/science/nutrients
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Healthy Pets, Healthy People.
https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). What Is Nonpoint Source Pollution?
https://www.epa.gov/nps