Pet owners should always pick up after their pets and dispose of waste in the trash or in a designated pet waste container. In many communities, pet waste containers are provided for residents. Pet waste should never be left on the ground or put into storm drains, roads, or water bodies.
WHY?
When it rains, water that isn’t absorbed into the ground becomes “stormwater.” This water makes its way into gutters and storm drains which lead to rivers, lakes, and the ocean. Stormwater carries excessive amounts of nutrients from pet waste into these waterways, causing an uninhabitable environment for fish, waterfowl, and other aquatic animals. Contaminated waters are also unsafe for swimming and can cause illness or even death in humans and pets.
What you can do
- Always clean up after your pet using bags or scoopers
- Dispose in pet waste containers or in the trash
- Never put pet waste into storm drains or on the road
- When traveling with pets, remember to bring waste bags
- Ask your community about installing pet waste containers in your neighborhood
- Share the importance of picking up after our pets with other pet owners
Want to learn more?
To learn more about how you can prevent and reduce stormwater pollution, view Preserving our Waterways.
Report illicit discharges/illegal dumping to Pasco County: 727-834-3611