How to Design a Septic System for a Dog Shelter

If you have one or several dogs and want a sanitary way to dispose of droppings without the expense of buying a commercial model here is a do-it-yourself project that can be finished in an afternoon. Be prepared for a work out with a shovel. I used a similar system for years when I had Basenji hounds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• shovel
• small, medium or large plastic garbage can with lid
• pea gravel
• drill to make 1/4 or 1/2 inch holes in plastic
• Septic system enzyme/bacteria powder

1. Drill three or four rows of 1/4 or 1/2 inch drainage holes all around the sides of the can starting an inch or two from the bottom. These holes can come up the sides 8 to 10 inches depending on the depth of the can. Space them about two inches apart.
2. Pick a place in your yard out of the way of normal traffic and where the system will not be run over by the lawn-mower. Place can upside down to judge size of hole. Use shovel to push into ground to trace hole size. Dig the hole for the can. The whole can except for the lip on which the lid rests should fit snuggly into the hole.
3. Place the can in the hole and dump in pea gravel up to the first row of the drainage holes. Place lid on the can. Now it is ready for use.
4. Operation of system - Open lid and put in dog droppings - Sprinkle about a quarter to half cup of septic system bacterial/enzyme powder on droppings and pour in about a quart of warm water - Replace lid to keep flies out.

Tips & Warnings

• The size of the can used will depend on the size and number of dogs you have. A standard 44 gallon can should handle 1-2 German shepherd size dogs.
• Each time you put droppings in make sure you add the enzyme/bacteria mix and water.
• Treat this like any other septic system DO NOT place it by a well or right next to you house or kennel.
• Keep the lid on to avoid flies.
• The digestion of waste will slow during cold winter months.