A note on pet waste disposal
Environmental considerations
Both dog and cat waste is damaging to the environment and local ecosystems. Due to high protein diets, dog waste often contains harmful bacteria and parasites including Toxocara, also known as ringworm. If not properly treated, Toxocara can cause serious human health concerns.
While dogs fed on plant-rich diets produce less harmful waste with fewer parasites and bacteria, it is still not safe to dispose of in a regular composting bin or the sewage system. In addition, dog waste is more acidic than other forms of animal waste and can damage plants.
Composting
However, dog waste can be composted under certain conditions. Composting involves the microbial digestion of organic matter and requires correct levels of heat, water and oxygen. Most well-maintained home composting solutions offer this although it is important to note that dog waste can take over one year to decompose.
If you choose to compost dog waste, it must not be mixed with compost intended for edible plants such as vegetables. We suggest using a separate compost bin solely for dog waste. This bin should be kept securely away from pets and children to avoid contamination with harmful bacteria and parasites.
Biodegradability
The tissue within Pu-la bags will dissolve over time and the outer layer of the bag can be recycled separately. If wrapped within the tissue, dog waste can be placed straight into the dedicated compost bin to decompose naturally over time.
Burying and burning
It is also possible to bury your dog and cat waste or burn it in a secure pit away from pets and children. However, fumes from burning pet waste can cause human health concerns including intestinal conditions. If you choose to burn your pet waste, we recommend bagging the waste prior to burning to reduce contact with any other materials being burnt.
Disposal in designated public bins
Alternatively, pet waste can be disposed of in designated pet waste bins often found in local parks.
Flushing
In the UK, pet waste should not be disposed of via a household bathroom waste system because the Toxocara often present in the waste is tolerant of the high temperatures within water treatment facilities which make it difficult to neutralise. In other markets, including Japan and the USA, it is, however, possible to dispose of pet waste via a household bathroom waste system. Please check with your local authority for area-specific guidance.