Record Snowfall Brings an Excess of Pet Poop Across the City

Brent Zielinski is just one of many people who make a living off of pet waste

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By Alexis Fernandez

Story Created: May 2, 2012 at 8:09 PM AKDT

Story Updated: May 2, 2012 at 8:12 PM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - The record snowfall in Anchorage not only brought potential flooding concerns, but also an excess of pet waste across the city.

“It really changed everything; normally it’s spread out and this year it was compact and gross,” said Brent Zielinski, owner of K-9 Pooper Scoopers.

Zielinski is just one of many people who make a living off of pet waste.

This year he’s been extra busy.

“Normally we're well done this time of year, and this year I got six more phone calls today alone,” he said.

He does the work alone and cleans nearly 30 yards a day. He said he’s had some challenges with the job – which include being chased and stepped on by a moose.

“Owners are really happy because than they don't have to deal with it, keeps bugs down, keeps the dogs happy because they have fresh sniffs all the time,” Zielinski said.

Yards aren't the only ones that have been affected by the ravages of winter. Parks across Anchorage are also in need of some TLC.

“There’s more water on the ground, somewhat frozen, like dog poop soup,” said Dr. Cherie Northon, executive director at Anchorage Waterways Council.

Neighborhood programs like Scoop the Poop aims to help with bags available throughout the city, but ultimately picking up after pets is the responsibility of the owner.

“If people could just be responsible for their own pet waste it would make a huge difference,” said Northon.

And for Zielinski scooping up is just part of his job.
 

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