Surface Water Management Division

Dog poop is raw sewage

Scoop the poop, bag it, and place it in the trash

More than 157,000 dogs live in Snohomish County, producing waste equivalent to a city of 40,000 people.  More than 25 tons of dog waste are dropped in Snohomish County backyards every day! (details)

Roundworms, E. coli, and Giardia are just a few of the many harmful microorganisms that can be transmitted from pet waste to humans. Some can last in your yard for as long as four years if not cleaned up. Children who play outside and adults who garden are at greatest risk of infection. (details)

Pet waste is one of the leading causes of bacterial contamination of streams in Snohomish County.  Pet waste also causes the same nitrogen related problems as fertilizer and livestock manure.

The solution is safe and easy. 1) Scoop the poop, 2) put it in a plastic bag, 3) place it in the trash, and 4) wash your hands.  Composting or burying your pet's waste does not reliably destroy the harmful organisms. (details)

Download our spiffy pet waste posters. You can frighten your friends and learn a few things at the same time!