The Doggie Dooley system offers a septic-style solution for pet waste management, utilizing enzyme and bacterial action to break down waste into a ground-absorbing liquid. This guide provides detailed information on installation, operation, and maintenance based on the available documentation. Designed for U.S. consumers, the system is marketed as an environmentally friendly and efficient alternative to traditional waste disposal methods.
Overview of the Doggie Dooley System
The Doggie Dooley system is an in-ground pet waste disposal solution that functions similarly to a home septic system. It is designed to break down pet waste using a combination of water, specialized digester powder, and natural biological processes. The system is non-toxic, odorless, and safe for pets, lawns, and shrubbery. It is not suitable for use in clay soil due to poor drainage characteristics.
The system includes a foot-operated 8-inch lid for easy waste disposal and is available in two primary models: the Deluxe Pyramid and the septic tank-style units. Each unit comes with a three-month supply of Waste Terminator Digester Powder. The Deluxe Pyramid model is suitable for up to two large or four small dogs, while the septic tank model is intended for higher waste volumes.
Installation requires digging a hole approximately 14 inches wide and four feet deep, with the unit partially buried so that only the flange and lid are above ground. The system is manufactured in the United States and is marketed as a convenient, eco-friendly option for pet owners.
Installation Process
The installation of the Doggie Dooley system involves several key steps, beginning with site preparation. According to the documentation, the ideal location should have well-draining soil, excluding clay, as it can hinder the system's performance. A "Perk Test" is recommended to assess the soil's drainage capacity. This test involves digging a 1-foot-wide by 2-foot-deep hole, pouring five gallons of water into it, and observing the drainage over a 24-hour period. If the water drains completely, the site is suitable for a pyramid-style unit. If water remains after 48 hours, the soil is not suitable for a Doggie Dooley system.
Once the site has been confirmed as suitable, the next step is to dig the installation hole. The hole should be 14 inches in diameter and four feet deep. A post hole digger is recommended for this task, although a garden spade can be used if a digger is not available. After the hole is dug, the Doggie Dooley unit is placed inside, ensuring that the flange and lid remain above ground.
After placing the unit in the hole, water and digester powder are added according to the provided instructions. The system is then ready for use, with waste deposited through the foot-operated lid. It is important to note that the system should not be used in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, as the biological processes that break down the waste are temperature-dependent.
Operational Guidelines
The Doggie Dooley system requires periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. The system should be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, including the recommended frequency of adding water and digester powder. Users should avoid overloading the system by adding an excessive amount of waste, as this can lead to clogging and reduced efficiency.
During colder months, when temperatures consistently remain below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the system should not be used. Instead, it should be left dormant until warmer weather returns. In the spring, users should clean up any remaining waste from the winter months and avoid adding an entire season's worth of waste at once, as this can overwhelm the system.
Relocating the Doggie Dooley unit is possible if necessary. For septic tank models, the unit should be carefully dug up, and the contents should be transferred to the new location. For pyramid models, the unit can be removed and placed in a new hole, with the waste continuing to break down at a slower rate.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
The documentation provides guidance for troubleshooting common issues. If water is not draining or is draining too slowly, users should check for blockages in the overflow tubes (for tank models) or at the bottom of the pyramid model. Grass and yard debris can accumulate over time and may need to be removed to restore proper drainage. Additionally, heavy rainfall can cause the ground to become saturated, temporarily halting the drainage process. In such cases, users should wait a few days for the water table to recede before resuming normal use.
If the system is not functioning as expected, users should verify that they are following the recommended usage guidelines. Overuse or improper maintenance can lead to clogging and inefficiency. In the event that the system becomes clogged, users may need to clean out debris from the unit or adjust the location to improve drainage.
Replacement parts, such as lids, are available for purchase. Users should inspect the flange before ordering a replacement lid to ensure compatibility. The flange must have two intact ears to which the lid can be screwed. If the flange is damaged, it cannot be replaced and may require the unit to be discarded.
Disposal and End-of-Life Considerations
When the Doggie Dooley system reaches the end of its useful life or needs to be removed for any reason, the documentation provides instructions for proper disposal. The unit should be removed from the ground and placed in a garbage bag for disposal with regular trash. It is important to note that the system is not designed for reuse and should not be relocated unless absolutely necessary.
If the system is being relocated, users should follow the recommended procedures for either tank or pyramid models, as outlined in the documentation. For tank models, the unit should be carefully dug out, and the contents should be transferred to the new location. For pyramid models, the unit can be lifted out and placed in a new hole, with the waste continuing to break down naturally.
Conclusion
The Doggie Dooley system provides an effective and environmentally friendly solution for pet waste management. Its septic-style design, combined with enzyme and bacterial action, allows for the natural breakdown of waste into a ground-absorbing liquid. The system is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Users should be aware of the system's limitations, including its incompatibility with clay soil and its inability to function in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Proper installation, regular maintenance, and troubleshooting are essential to ensuring the system functions optimally. Users who experience issues with drainage or performance should refer to the troubleshooting guidelines provided in the documentation. In the event that the system needs to be relocated or replaced, users should follow the recommended procedures to avoid damaging the unit or the surrounding environment.
As with any waste management system, the Doggie Dooley requires responsible use and adherence to the manufacturer's guidelines. By following these recommendations, pet owners can effectively manage their pet's waste while minimizing environmental impact.