After struggling for quite some time with our septic system, I realized there might be a problem with the way we were approaching various aspects of plumbing. For starters, we didn't think too much of putting things down the garbage disposal, which created some serious issues later on down the road. We were left struggling with drains that just didn't work properly, and so we started carefully considering ways to change things. We talked with a plumber about septic system maintenance, and they had some tips that improved our experience. Check out this website for awesome tips on managing septic tanks.
No septic system can handle everything. As a result, you need to watch out for common dog-related issues if you're a dog owner. Otherwise, you increase the chances of clogs and worse, meaning you'll have to call in septic system services.
What Are 3 Dog-Related Issues You Need to Watch Out For?
Keep these three dog-related issues in mind:
Letting Dog Fur Enter Your Septic System
Hair is biodegradable. Unfortunately, that doesn't prevent it from being a potential problem for septic systems. Hair can take years to break down. Furthermore, it swells up when it soaks in water, meaning it is likelier to catch substances flowing past it than people expect. As such, it isn't a coincidence that hair is a leading cause of clogged drains.
Scientific American points out that fur is the same thing as hair. That means you should be as careful about preventing your dog's fur from entering your septic system as you are about your hair. Luckily, most dogs can fit in a washtub. Failing that, the right hair catcher can often double as a fur catcher for the shower drain.
Putting Dog Waste in Your Septic System
It seems reasonable to assume that a septic system can handle dog waste if it can handle human waste. Sadly, this isn't necessarily the case. Sometimes, dog waste contains bones, rawhide, and other solid substances that can block pipes. Other times, dog waste contains microorganisms that can disrupt a septic system's delicate micro-ecosystems. You should consult a septic services provider for an expert opinion if you aren't sure whether your septic waste can handle dog waste. The consequences of a backed-up septic system are too unpleasant to make decisions based on assumptions rather than facts.
Letting Your Dog Dig Up Your Drain Field
Some dogs are avid diggers. You need to keep them away from your drain field because they can ruin your drain field's ability to filter your septic system's wastewater. Even worse, dogs can get sick by coming into contact with harmful substances, which can mean an expensive visit to the veterinarian.
The Humane Society of the United States says dogs can dig holes for many reasons. Some dig because they're bored, meaning they need more exercise and stimulation. Others dig because they're trying to escape, meaning they need to be made to feel safe and comfortable. Positive reinforcement is an effective way to teach dogs what they can and can't do. However, you might also want to install a fence around your drain field as a precautionary measure. Knowing where the pipes run is critical for ensuring you won't break anything during installation. If you don't have this information, you'll need a septic services provider to map out everything.
Further Considerations
Wastewater is a real threat to human well-being. As a result, you should always err on the side of caution when it comes to your septic system. A willingness to consult septic system services can save you much frustration in the long run.
Share1 June 2023
