How to Recycle Dog Waste

A responsible dog owner removes dog waste from the sidewalk and yard. While many dog owners choose to discard it with household trash, there are ways to recycle it. Dog waste, or the waste of any meat-eating species, is inappropriate for compost used in edible gardens, due to the possible presence of E. coli bacteria. However, it still may be composted far away from food-producing plants using one of two do-it-yourself systems.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic container or trashcan
  • Knife or industrial scissors
  • Bucket of water
  • Septic tank powder
  • Plastic lid
  • Shovel or spade
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Instructions

  1. Build a Composting Septic System

    • 1

      Choose a location for your dog septic system. The location should not be in a heavy traffic area and should drain well. Look for dry soil and avoid an area that is consistently wet or mossy. Note the presence of tree roots. The septic system will not be successful if roots are interfering.

    • 2

      Dig a hole at least 18 inches deep with a shovel or spade. Suggested diameter is approximately one foot. Make adjustments based on the size of the receptacle used. The deeper the hole, the higher the capacity.

    • 3

      Cut or drill holes in the plastic bin or trash can so that liquid is able to drain. Cut a hole in the bottom for the same purpose.

    • 4

      Place plastic container in the hole. Close the hole with the lid. The lid does not have to match the plastic container. It may be desirable for the lid to be slightly larger than the hole.

    • 5

      Pour one quart of water into the hole, then add dog waste.

    • 6

      Sprinkle a packet of septic tank starter into the hole. The decomposition process will begin and natural bacteria will liquefy the feces. After the second day, more waste can be added to the bin. Add water on a weekly basis.

    • 7

      Remove powder. After two or three years, the homemade septic system will need to be emptied. What remains is a powdery dry humus. Humus is a carbon-rich soil component that remains when organic matter is broken down completely. Spread humus at the base of ornamental plants for fertilizer, or bury near plants that do not produce food.

    Easy Dog Waste Recycling

    • 8

      Select a location for the hole. Choose an area that is in proximity to ornamental plants only. Avoid any contact with food- producing plants.

    • 9

      Dig a hole with a depth of approximately eight inches. Place dog waste into the hole until the hole is half full. To accelerate decomposition, add fireplace ash or wood chips.

    • 10

      Cover the hole with soil. The dog waste decomposes and provides nutrients to the flower bed or shrubs.