Pet waste contains hazardous bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are unhealthy for humans and marine life alike—and we won’t even talk about the ick factor. So when nature calls for your pooch, put their waste in the garbage bin.
Poop In the Yard
Here’s something of note: while your lawn may seem like a slightly better place to leave your pooch’s poo, it really isn’t. Lawns typically have compact soil because of the high amount of traffic that takes place on them. This means they act as a semi-pervious surface, where much of the waste will likely wash off. Besides, pet waste is high in nitrates, so concentrations of it can burn your grass.
Sidewalk No-Nos
Paved surfaces such as sidewalks are another no-no for leaving the unmentionables, since poop can easily wash into a nearby storm drain, and likely be left untreated before it reaches the ocean. (Not to mention the stink eye you’re going to get from neighbors, including us. Tisk-tisk.)
Dog Parks and The Beach
We’re a big fan of dog parks, where your pooch can run free, and you can still keep track of where they’ve done the deed. (There are, however, dog parks in Wailea and Kahului.) At the beach, dogs must wear a leash, which we like for the same reason: you can keep an eye out on your best friend’s duties. Just remember to throw baggies in your purse or car before a jaunt.
Tips for Pick-Up (as if you needed them)
You know the drill: Put your hand inside the bag, scoop up the waste, turn it inside out, tie a knot, and voila, a healthier ocean!
If picking it up is not an option for whatever reason, then bury that poo. To safely quarantine the bacteria, you should bury waste in a hole at least 12 inches deep.
The key takeaway: Don’t be a poop… pick up the poo. (Sorry, we had to.)
