What can I do to eliminate pet waste odors in my backyard?
- Angie's List member Amber Swope

"Dealing with pet waste is always a tough one," says Steve Simpson, owner of highly rated Simpson & Company Landscape Design Inc. in Falls Church, Va. "It takes work to own a dog just like it takes work to keep weeds out of the garden."

Simpson, who owns three border collies and a small poodle mix, says he eliminates odor by picking up waste every other day and hosing down urine with water right after his dogs are finished. "Just putting in flowers isn't going to mask the smell of an unkempt backyard," he says, and recommends looking into artificial turf with extensive drainage, as it won't hold onto the smell as much as real grass.

Lesley Smith, co-owner of highly rated DogOn Fitness - a pet sitting, walking and pooper scooper business in Reston, Va. - says depending on the size of the yard, the first visit to pick up poop in the yard costs a minimum of $30. She also recommends eliminating pet waste odors in the backyard by regularly taking your dog on walks. "You and your dog will develop a bond and you'll both feel better from getting some exercise," she says.

Dr. Erica McFarland of highly rated Dominion Animal Hospital in Herndon, Va., says a change in diet could also help improve smell. McFarland advises looking for foods marked with approval from the Association of American Feed Control Officials. "That means it will be well balanced for a pet's nutritional requirements," she says.