May 2007 Pet Waste and Clean WaterP When the pet waste washes into a waterway, it decays and uses up oxygen while releasing ammonia. Low oxygen levels and ammonia in a warm season can kill off aquatic life in waterways. The pet waste also contains nutrients, which promote weed and algae growth. Excessive amounts of nutrients in water will cause the water to become green and cloudy, commonly referred to as eutrophication. Pet waste also carries disease-causing organisms, making the water unsafe for swimming and drinking. To prevent pet waste from becoming a problem, pet owners should regularly pick up after their pets. Be particularly vigilant of areas near wells, sewer inlets, ditches, and waterways. Children seem to be the most frequent victims of disease from pet waste, so special attention should also be given to play areas. There are a few options to consider when deciding on the proper method for disposing of pet waste. One thing you should not do is put the waste in the compost pile. Below are three commonly used disposal techniques to choose from: Flush down the toilet
Bury in the yard
Place in the trash
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