Other issues
Nutrients in pet waste also encourage weed and algae growth , thus causing serious problems for water quality . Pet waste contains nitrogen and phosphorus , two elements that fertilize aquatic plants and make them grow out of control . This nutrient-rich water is cloudy , green , unattractive and unhealthy for swimming , boating , fishing , or drinking . It also smells . Finally , when pet wastes decays , it uses up oxygen and releases ammonia , which can lead to fish kills .
STORMWATER FACT : THE FERTILIZER MYTH Contrary to popular belief , carnivorous animals , such as dogs , do not produce useable manure-fertilizer for plants . Beneficial manure-fertilizer comes from herbivores like horses and cows . These animals consume vegetation and return unused waste back to the soil to be taken up by plants .
Pet Waste Tips : Bury it , Flush it , or Trash it
�� Always clean up after your pet , even in your own yard . Your pet ’ s waste is NOT fertilizer .
�� Bury your waste in a hole that is at least 5-6 ’’ deep and cover it with soil away from gardens , ditches , storm drains , and waterways . It will decompose slowly so bury waste in different locations throughout the yard .
�� Flush your pet ’ s waste down the toilet where it will flow through the sanitary sewers for treatment .
�� Throw your pet ’ s waste in the trash . Carry disposable bags with you while you walk your pet and dispose of it in the trash when done .
�� Hire a professional . Believe it or not , a number of professional pet waste disposal services exist in the North Central Texas area . These businesses will completely remove the waste from your yard and dispose of it themselves , for a fee . Check your local phone listings for more information .
�� Tell others not to leave their pet ’ s waste on the ground .
Flea Dips
Do not pour flea dip solutions onto driveways or into the street . Flea dips usually contain an insecticide than can harm aquatic life .
Kitty Litter
Dispose of kitty waste and litter properly . Use a two-step process to clean out the cat box .
�� Scoop cat waste out of the flushable litter and , flush it down the toilet , taking care to minimize the amount of litter you flush .
�� When litter is no longer usable , bag the litter and dispose of it in the trash , not in the toilet . Large amounts of litter flushed down the toilet may damage plumbing . Never flush any kind of litter if you have a septic tank !
REMEMBER : It is unlawful not to pick up after your pet .
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