Dogs make a lot of environmentally hazardous poo. In populated areas, it's a real health risk. Here's some greener, safer ways to get rid of their feces.
6 Greenest Dog Waste Disposal Options
- Bury
- Trash
- Flush
- Septic compost
- Incinerate
- Hot compost
Bury Dog Poo in Rural Areas
I don't recommend this in urban or suburban environments. But if you're in the country or wilderness, bury it like you would human feces on a camping trip. Make your hole 6-12 inches deep. Make sure it's covered completely afterward. This isn't ideal, but it's much better than not burying it.
Use a Biodegradable Bag to Trash Dog Waste
Sending dog poo to the landfill is not a great solution overall. Pet waste takes up too much space in landfills. What's more, buried without oxygen, it doesn't decompose efficiently. It can be there for centuries. But at least a biodegradable bag will decompose eventually, unlike plastic bags, which could remain intact for many thousands of years.
Flush Dog Feces Down the Toilet
For the average dog owner, flushing dog turds down the toilet is probably best and easiest option for disposing of canine waste. When walking your dog, scoop the poop into a covered container with flushable cat litter, which will coat the turd. Or use a dissolvable, flushable, polyvinyl dog poo bag.
Install a Pet Waste Septic Composter in Your Yard
Many companies sell small septic systems just for pet waste. You can also make one yourself. They're basically buried buckets with holes in the sides. You put the dog poop into the bucket, add wood shavings or septic starter, and let the fecal matter compost. The done compost leaches into the soil, feeding plants.
Incinerate Dog Turds Into Ash
An incinerating toilet made for human use could just as easily be used for pet waste. Several companies make incinerating toilets, usually marketed for cabins and RVs. Two established manufacturers are EcoJohn and Incinolet. After flushing, the toilets use electricity or propane to burn the waste to sterile ash, which you can safely throw away.
Safely Compost Dog Waste Anaerobically
Humanure composting is an anaerobic composting method. It breaks down human waste safely. The high temperature of the decomposition process kills any parasites in the feces. However, using this method takes knowledge, experience, and dedication. But when done properly, composted pet waste nutrients can be safely recycled. Google "humanure" for more information.
