Adopting a puppy can be a great experience, but it can be even better when you’re raising them with environmentally friendly practices. One of the most important aspects of being a responsible dog owner is disposing of dog waste properly. Pet waste bacteria accounts for up to 20% of the bacteria in urban waterways, spreading diseases like Giardia and Salmonella.
Here are some eco-friendly tips you and your pup can follow to help protect our watersheds:
- Housetrain your new companion as soon as possible. Throwing dog waste in the trash outside rather than flushing down the toilet helps conserve water.
- When disposing of dog waste in the trash, use environmentally friendly bags that will degrade at a faster rate than a regular plastic bag.
- Don’t count on dog feces as fertilizer for your yard unless you use an in-ground pet waste disposal system with a special stool digester enzyme additive.
- When out in a public area, promptly pick up your puppy’s waste, secure it in an environmentally friendly bag, and place it in designated trash bins.
Ready to adopt? Check out the Riverside County Department of Animal Services website for adoption shelters. Every pet with an eco-friendly lifestyle counts towards healthier watersheds.
