Best Way To Pick Up Dog Poop In Yard: CO Pet Waste Removal Experts Share Tips

It's Just Poop… Right? Not Even Close.

Sure, it's unpleasant. But did you know the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies dog waste as a biohazardous pollutant—on par with oil spills and toxic chemicals?

One gram of dog poop can contain millions of bacteria. That tiny pile in your backyard may be carrying E. coli, Salmonella, parvovirus, and parasites like roundworms and Giardia. These pathogens don't just vanish—many can survive in soil for months or even years, waiting for a curious kid, a shoeless stroll, or a dog's paw to carry them indoors.

Colorado-based pet waste professionals emphasize that the problem is bigger than just smell. "People tend to treat it like leaves or yard debris," one expert at Poo Squad shared. "But pet waste behaves more like sewage, and needs to be handled as such."

And When It Rains? The Problem Spreads

Rain doesn't wash it away—it spreads it. Uncollected pet waste gets swept into local waterways, bringing bacteria, viruses, and parasites along for the ride. This can lead to:

• Toxic algal blooms
• Water contamination
• Beach and park closures

Not to mention: dog poop is not fertilizer. Its high nitrogen content can burn grass, killing patches of lawn instead of helping them grow.

The Right Way to Scoop: Tools That Make It Easier

There's no single "best" method, only what fits your yard, lifestyle, and tolerance level. Here's what experts recommend:

• Manual with Bags: Use a plastic or compostable bag to cover your hand, scoop the waste, and seal it tightly. Ideal for quick daily pickups.
• Pooper Scoopers: For those who want to keep their distance (or knees unbent).
• Claw/Jaw Scoopers are great for pavement.
• Rake and Bin Systems work better on grass or gravel, especially with multiple dogs.
• Soft or Messy Waste? Try the "cover and clump" trick: scatter dirt or grass over the area before scooping to prevent smearing.

Some professionals also use pet-safe freeze sprays to harden soft stool, making cleanup easier in hot weather.

Proper Disposal: Where the Waste Actually Belongs

Scooping is just step one. What you do after matters, too.

• Trash Bin: Still the most common method. Use sealed (preferably compostable) bags. In summer? Double-bag it for odor control.
• Flush It: The EPA recommends flushing dog poop (sans bag) if your home's connected to a municipal sewer system. Never flush regular plastic.
• Pet Waste Digesters: Like mini septic tanks for your yard. Great for eco-conscious households with well-drained soil.

Consistency is King (Or... Clean?)

Professionals at Delta's Poo Squad say the real secret isn't in the gear. It's in the routine.

• Scoop Daily or Every Other Day: Reduces odor and disease risk.
• Keep a Covered Outdoor Bin: This minimizes smell and makes drop-offs faster.
• Designate a Potty Zone: Training your dog to use a specific area can contain pathogens and make cleanup easier.

Clean Hands, Clean Tools, Clean Yard

Even if you use gloves or scoopers, wash your hands thoroughly after cleanup. Regularly disinfect tools using pet-safe cleaners, especially if you're cleaning up after multiple dogs. If you're dealing with frequent diarrhea or foul-smelling waste, it could signal a bigger issue. Monitoring changes in color or consistency can help catch health problems early.

When to Call in the Professionals

Let's face it: not everyone has the time, mobility, or stomach to stay on top of pet waste. For multi-dog households or busy homeowners, professional services offer peace of mind, reliable routines, and proper sanitation.

Companies like Poo Squad, serving Colorado's Western Slope region, combine hands-on cleanup with hygiene protocols, equipment sanitization, and even digital checklists to track yard conditions over time.

Your backyard is where your family plays, your pets roam, and your garden grows. Keeping it clean isn't just about appearances—it's about health, safety, and peace of mind.