Rainy Season Pet Waste Tips

Your property may be an easy target for stormwater pollution, especially if you have a pet. When pet waste comes into contact with water, (i.e. rain, hose water, sprinklers, etc.) bacteria, parasites, and viruses found in pet waste can be carried into our storm drains and local waterways. With the rainy season in full force, it’s important to do your part to help manage pet waste!  

If there is pet waste that hasn’t been picked up on your property’s slopes, bare areas, or close to water sources such as creeks, streams or lakes, there is an increased risk of contributing to water runoff pollution. See our tips  for preventing pet waste from entering the storm drain and what you can do to help.

We encourage everyone to play a role in preventing stormwater pollution. In 2018, the San Diego County Department of Public Works, Watershed Protection Program, was honored to have won an award from the California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA) for their “Poo Points” program which engages youth in educating community members about protecting water quality by picking up dog waste on private property. Check out the Poo Points flyer for additional tips and to learn more about the program.