Sanitation District No. 1 (SD1) and Kenton County Animal Services are teaming up for Splash for Animal Shelters, a community campaign launching April 30—National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day—and continuing through May in celebration of National Pet Month.
The message is simple: Every pet deserves a home, and every home and community deserves clean water.
You might not expect a sewer district and an animal shelter to find common ground, but in Northern Kentucky, they’ve come together through a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, animal welfare and the communities they serve.
Why Dog Waste Matters
Dogs in Northern Kentucky produce more than 39 million pounds of waste each year. That’s about 274 pounds per dog.
Dog waste contains high levels of phosphorus - more than cows or horse manure- and harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella and giardia. When left on the ground, stormwater can carry it into storm drains and into the same streams we rely on for drinking water and recreation.
“Dog waste isn’t just a mess. It’s pollution,” said Chris Cole, Director of Enterprise Communications at SD1. “This campaign highlights both sides of our work, stormwater and wastewater. From a stormwater perspective, we want to get the message out about pet waste. When it's left on the ground, rain can wash it into storm drains and pollute our waterways."
The campaign encourages folks to "PAWs for Clean Water" - take a moment to bag and trash pet waste before it becomes pollution.
Supporting the Animal Shelter
As the region's wastewater provider, SD1 is proud to treat more than 41 million gallons of wastewater, including what comes from facilities like animal shelters. At Kenton County Animal Services, clean water is a daily necessity, from washing bowls to cleaning kennels.
“Most people don’t realize how much goes into caring for each animal,” said Taylor Jackson, interim director of Kenton County Animal Services. “Water is a big part of that, helping us give pets a clean, safe place to stay while they wait for a new home.”
SD1 and the shelter hope the campaign will inspire community involvement.
“We’re always looking for more helping hands, whether it’s through adoption, fostering or volunteering,” Jackson said. “Every bit of support makes a real difference and we’re thankful for this campaign getting the word out that everyone can play a part.”
Ways to Get Involved
During the month of May, anyone who adopts a dog from Kenton County Animal Services will receive a free SD1 swag bag, while supplies last. Each bag includes:
- A dog bandana
- A waste bag keychain
- Hand sanitizer and holder
- A flyer with clean water tips for pet owners
The campaign will also be featured at SD1’s Public Service Park in Ft. Wright. Visitors can walk the trails, check out educational signs and learn how small changes in daily habits—like bagging and trashing pet waste—can protect local streams and rivers.
Join the Conversation
Follow SD1 and Kenton County Animal Services on Facebook throughout May for weekly highlights, adoptable pets and helpful reminders about protecting your community and the environment.
Learn more at sd1.org/animalshelter.