Pet waste is smelly, unsightly and messy and attracts bugs and rodents. It is also a health risk to both people and other pets, and it adversely affects water quality. In many locales, it is required by law to pick up your pet's poop and dispose of it properly.

For messier deposits, such as loose stool or dog diarrhea, Family Handyman suggested using compressed air to freeze the stool before picking it up. You could also sprinkle a small amount of clumping cat litter on top of the poop, which will make it easier to get it all.