Animal Waste Trash Container Pet waste is not allowed in the City green waste program, nor should it be put in a backyard composting unit. The composting will not heat up enough to destroy the pathogens in poo. In fact, no animal products should go in your composter. Before mowing your lawn, clean up any pet waste so that it does not end up in the Green Container along with grass clippings. Possible ways to break down animal waste in your yard: (Not for the faint of heart!) Those with a strong eco-resolve and “yuck” factor reflex could employ a Bokashi system (fermentation in buckets) for animal products and dog poo that would break down some of the pathogens. Once processed it requires being buried in the yard to finish the final break down stage. This should be buried away from any type of FOOD growing plants. (It cannot be put in the green waste curbside bin even in this state!). You could also employ a system to compost the poo in its own unit. Again, it needs to be out of your regular composting (food scraps and yard trimmings) unit and away from food plants. Avoid composting animal waste if your pet is on medications. More tips at Bokashi Living. Pick It Up Many pathogens in pet waste are harmful to humans and other animals. When left on the ground, pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli can leach into water systems. Be sure to pick up your pet waste every time. Don't Compost Waste Don’t place pet waste in commercial or backyard composting, even if you are using compostable bags. Doing so transmits diseases and invites animals to rummage through any backyard compost pile. Never Flush Cat Waste Down the Drain Cat waste can possess especially toxic pathogens. To reduce pollution to water streams, the best way to dispose of pet waste is to bag it and throw it away.
