Abstract: A system may include a scoop, and a handle including a cavity to carry a bag. The system may also include a user-positioned joint to join the handle to the scoop.

Abstract: A device for collecting and disposing of pet waste includes a housing containing a vacuum source. The housing is configured to receive a disposable liner bag. When closed, the housing holds the liner bag securely therein. The mouth of the bag is fed through the access port of the device such that the access port is insulated from contact with the waste being picked up. A bail holds the bag in place. A filtered bag is presented for use in the device.

Abstract: An improved portable waste collection device for pets that is easier to use to collect and dispose of animal waste.

Abstract: A method of collecting pet waste using a disposable pet waste collector including opening a flap coupled to a frame from a folded position of the frame to an operative position thereof to expose a collection opening in the frame; opening a bag attached to the frame so that the bag forms a receptacle protruding outwards from the collection opening; positioning the flexible frame on a surface so that the collection opening is disposed over the pet waste; and waggling the frame to collect the pet waste.

Abstract: An absorbent pad is configured for receiving waste. The absorbent pad includes a base layer and a string. The base layer has a collection region surrounded by a peripheral edge. The string is slidably attached to the peripheral edge at a plurality of locations. The base layer is configured to move from an open position to a closed position. The base layer is configured to be substantially flat such that the string is disposed along the peripheral edge when the base layer is in the open position. The base layer moves from the open position to the closed position in response to sliding the string relative to the plurality of locations, whereby the peripheral edge is drawn together at the plurality of locations to form a bundle and the string is only disposed along the peripheral edge corresponding to the plurality of locations.

Abstract: A dog walking tube comprising a hollow tube having a first end and a second end. The hollow tube has a portion that will hold fecal matter waste bags. The opposite or second end of the hollow container receives and stores used fecal matter waste bags. The dog walking tube may allow used and new fecal mater waste bags to be held within the dog walking tube and not the dog walkers hand during the walk.

Abstract: Multifunctional packaging containers and methods of use are disclosed. An exemplary container typically comprises a body section having a generally flat rectangular shape when in a flattened configuration. The container transforms into a generally elongated cylindrical shape when in the closed configuration. The exemplary container also comprises a first and second side wall. A handle assembly may also be included. Additionally, the container typically includes one or more securing mechanisms adapted to lock the contents therein. Methods of using the container include using it as a disposable pet waste scooper or general storage compartment.

Abstract: A reinforced blown film bag for minimizing the touch and feel of waste matter collecting experience at the collector hands and for creating fast, clean, efficient, easy and touch-less feel of pet waste matter collection and disposal is disclosed herein. The reinforced blown film bag includes fingers pockets, reinforced surface, pet waste matter collecting pocket, pull remove and tie flaps, easy to carry handles ambidextrous use and in some embodiments may be a flat folded bag to portable packaging.

Abstract: A wearable animal waste collection device comprising a wearable structure configured to be worn by a user, the wearable structure including an attachment portion for removably engaging a direct collection device wherein the direct collection device is configured to directly collect an animal waste before the animal waste reaches a ground surface is provided. An associated method is also provided.

Abstract: An animal waste collection apparatus includes a housing having side and end walls defining an open top, bottom, and interior area. A bottom panel is pivotally coupled to a lower edge of one of the side walls and movable between an open configuration not covering the open bottom and a closed configuration covering the open bottom. A collection member includes a mounting portion completely covering the housing open top and a collection portion extending downwardly into the interior area, the collection portion being movable between a retracted configuration inside the interior area and an extended configuration outside the interior area through the open bottom for use to collect animal waste. The bottom panel is operatively coupled to the collection portion inside the interior area such that the bottom panel is moved to the closed configuration automatically when the collection portion resiliently moves from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration.

Abstract: A system for the sanitary collection and disposal of pet waste is disclosed. The system comprises adjacent male and female receptacles connected by a pull string. The male receptacle contains an open bottom for the purpose of being deployed over targeted waste, while the female receptacle contains an opening most adjacent to the male receptacle in order to allow for their joining. The user secures the female receptacle and applies a tension to the pull string, allowing the smaller dimensioned male envelope to be pulled into the female receptacle interior, thereby capturing the waste within the assembly utilizing the tapered bottom edge of the female receptacle as a scooping mechanism. This process can be accomplished from the standing position while supporting the female receptacle with one foot and utilizing one arm to drawn in the male receptacle, providing flexibility for users and eliminates contact concerns with the waste product.

Abstract: A sanitary pet walking system for providing a lit walking path while safely restraining the pet and further providing a sanitary system for managing pet feces features a hollow base having a light located on a base first end terminating end. The system features a handle with a power switch on a base top and a retractable leash located on a base bottom. A disposable glove designed to pick up pet feces is constructed from a water resistant material. The glove features a first plastic zipper component located on a glove face close to a glove terminating end and a mating second plastic zipper component located opposed to the first plastic zipper component on a glove back close to the glove terminating end.

Abstract: The invention provides a utensil 10 includes a body 12 and a water entry point 14. The body 12 is in the form of a scoop and is fabricated from a thermoplastic polymer, e.g. Polyvinyl chloride. The body 12 is substantially cylindrical in shape and is typically truncated along its length. The inner portion of the body 12 defines a scoop-like excrement receiving surface 16 which extends from a free end region 18 of the body 12. Water is then supplied via the entry point 14 into the body 12 at a pressure sufficient to discharge the excrement received therein and disposed of into the drainage system.

Abstract: A pet excrement box includes an outer box (1) and an inner tray (2) which is detachable from the outer box (1). The outer box (1) has a V-shaped opening. At least one side of the outer box (1) is formed with an accommodation space (11) to accommodate the inner tray (2). The inner tray (2) has two sides perpendicular to the opening of the outer box (1) and each having a suspension portion (21). The suspension portion (21) is hanged on an edge of the accommodation space (11) of the outer box (1). The pet excrement box of the present invention can dump the excrements on the sands quickly. Ordinarily, the user can use a shovel (3) to clean the excrements on the inner tray (2). It is convenient and hygienic to clean the pet excrement box.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for extracting and properly disposing of refuse such as, for example, excrement. The apparatus includes a storage chamber for storing extracted refuse wherein the storage chamber is distinct from the extraction mechanism for extracting the refuse. The apparatus further includes a pumping mechanism for pumping fluid from a fluid source through a fluid conduit and into the storage chamber.

Abstract: A cat litter scoop has one or more adjustable screens that adjust the effective opening in a scoop portion of the cat litter scoop. In some embodiments, the cat litter scoop may include two screens, one lying atop the other, wherein at least one of the two screens is adjustable relative to the other. In some embodiments, both screens of the cat litter scoop may be adjustable. In this embodiment, one screen may be adjustable backward and forward and the other screen may be adjustable from side to side, allowing the holes of the screen to become smaller in order to capture the clumps of urine such that they would be removed from the litter material.

Abstract: A collection device for pet waste material and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a pair of opposing shells extends from a base at which there is pivotally attachment of the opposing shells. The pair of opposing shells are pivotally movable between a closed shell state with the respective shell ends proximate each other and an open shell state wherein the shell ends are spaced from each other. A bag when folded upon itself may have its pouch inserted into the collection device and held therein between the pair of opposing shells. A pair of pockets are respectively coupled to each of the outer surfaces of the shells and configured to accept fingers for grasping and manipulating the collection device between the closed shell state and the open shell state.

Abstract: An animal waste collection apparatus includes a housing having side and end walls defining an open top, bottom, and interior area. A bottom panel is pivotally coupled to a lower edge of one of the side walls and movable between an open configuration not covering the open bottom and a closed configuration covering the open bottom. A collection member includes a mounting portion completely covering the housing open top and a collection portion extending downwardly into the interior area, the collection portion being movable between a retracted configuration inside the interior area and an extended configuration outside the interior area through the open bottom for use to collect animal waste. The bottom panel is operatively coupled to the collection portion inside the interior area such that the bottom panel is moved to the closed configuration automatically when the collection portion resiliently moves from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration.

Abstract: A pet waste scoop, e.g., cat litter scoop, having a relatively large mouth opening includes body having an open end opposite a closed end and defining an interior therebetween for receiving pet waste for easy disposal thereof. A handle is integrally formed with the body and extends downwardly toward the closed end a predetermined distance such that the user may easily grasp the handle for manipulating the pet waste scoop while maintaining his or her hand a safe distance from the pet waste to be scooped. A plurality of elongate slot-shaped apertures that can be curvilinear are formed within a front surface opposite the handle for sifting the litter scooped with the pet waste scoop. The apertures are defined by a number of rounded elongate sifting bars that also can be of curvilinear construction and configured to prevent pet waste and/or litter build up within the apertures.

Abstract: A sifting scoop for removing pet waste from litter in a litter box having a handle carrying a sifting cup having a mouth wider than a downstream pet waste retaining pocket formed by the cup. The handle overlies the sifting cup providing a waste shield. The handle includes a grip attached by a bridge to the cup that provides a hand guard and scoop hanger with the grip serving as a leg when the scoop is stood uprightly on a pedestal formed by a cup endwall. The cup has a first sifting portion formed in a litter-engaging surface on the side opposite the handle with the sifting portion formed by a plurality of elongate slots that are wavy or S-shaped extending longitudinally in the direction of scooping. The cup has a second sifting portion having slots in the end wall inline with litter being scooped.

Abstract: A collection device for pet waste material and method for use of the same. In one embodiment, a pair of opposing shells extend from a base at which there is pivotally attachment of the opposing shells. The pair of opposing shells are pivotally movable between a closed shell state with the respective shell ends proximate each other and an open shell state wherein the shell ends are spaced from each other. A bag when folded upon itself may have its pouch inserted into the collection device and held therein between the pair of opposing shells. A pair of pockets are respectively coupled to each of the outer surfaces of the shells and configured to accept fingers for grasping and manipulating the collection device between the closed shell state and the open shell state.

Abstract: A pet waste collection apparatus includes a main frame body including a loop portion, a frame handle attached to the loop portion, and a pair of opposed hooks extending outwardly from the frame handle near an area thereof where it attaches to the loop portion. The main frame body may be formed from solid or coated wire. In use, bag handles of a disposable handled bag are placed over the hooks, and the upper edge of the main bag body is then placed over the loop portion where it fits tightly. The bottom portion of the bag is then fed through the loop portion, and a unit of pet waste is moved through the loop portion and into the plastic bag.

Abstract: A decomposable collector and container for the manual collection and containment of small amounts of material without direct manual contact. The collector and container may decompose upon exposure to light, heat, ozone, or other environmental factor.

Abstract: A scoop device having a scoop and a handle with an articulated connection that allows for a sift plate to be operated by manual manipulation of an actuator bar. The actuator bar is operatively connected to the sift plate by means of a reciprocating bar in an articulating manner. The sift plate is positioned to slide along the bottom of the scoop. The actuator bar, which is contained within and a part of the handle, may be spring biased. The scoop bottom and sift plate may include slotted openings. Manipulation of the actuator bar causes the reciprocating bar to rotate, in turn causing the sift plate to move back and forth, thereby sifting, straining or otherwise separating fresh particulate from scoop.

Abstract: A cat litter scoop has a handle part and a scoop part. The handle part includes a releasable locking mechanism and a button for releasing the locking mechanism. The scoop part is connected to the handle part via the releasable locking mechanism. When the scoop part is soiled, such as after scooping cat litter, a user presses the button to release the locking mechanism and jettison the scoop part and the user has no contact with the cat litter and no contact with the soiled scoop part. Preferably, the scoop part is biodegradable and may include paper pulp.

Abstract: A cat litter scoop has one or more adjustable screens that adjust the effective opening in a scoop portion of the cat litter scoop. In some embodiments, the cat litter scoop may include two screens, one lying atop the other, wherein at least one of the two screens is adjustable relative to the other. In some embodiments, both screens of the cat litter scoop may be adjustable. In this embodiment, one screen may be adjustable backward and forward and the other screen may be adjustable from side to side, allowing the holes of the screen to become smaller in order to capture the clumps of urine such that they would be removed from the litter material.

Abstract: A waste removal device comprises a body, a paddle (5,72) and a collection chamber (16,74), the paddle (5,72) being drivable to deliver waste from an area to be cleaned (18,73) to the collection chamber (16,74) and further comprising a fluid delivery device (13,75) arranged to deliver a fluid to the area to be cleaned (18,73). A lever (1,77) may be actuated to drive the paddle (5,72) and an optional brush (8) or other secondary means, which scoop and clean pet waste from a surface. Upon activating the paddle (5,72), a water sanitation system may engage and deliver sanitation fluid both onto the area to be cleaned818,72) and onto internal mechanisms of the device. The device may be used several times before emptying, which may be carried out by returning it to a docking station where a mechanism automatically releases the waste into a sealed biodegradable tank.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting and disposing pet waste that includes a biodegradable plastic bag and either one or two built-in disposable collection aids. The user grasps the lower closed end of the bag while also grabbing the built-in disposable collection aid. The bag is then inverted over the user's hand and forearm, providing protection from the pet waste and exposing the built-in collection aid. The collection aid's leading edge acts as a scoop and facilitates scooping up the pet waste. The bag is then inverted once again to its original position and optional handles are tied to close the bag.

Abstract: A scooper operable by movement of a hand or hands in which a dowel is held between outer and inner scoops pivotally connected about the dowel, each scoop having a front wall extending from a base such that the scoops form a jaw for picking up an object held inside the scoops in a closed position and movement of the scoops relative to each other are controlled by opposition of a thumb and at least one finger of the hand.

Abstract: An electrically-operated animal excrement collector including an external housing having inside an electrically coupled motor, rechargeable battery and a switch and a collection system engages to the electrical motor via a worm gear. Once the motor is activated the worm gear transmits an up and down lineal movement to the collecting system. The collecting system includes multiple collecting elements simulating claws, which once a bag is inserted at the lower section of the device and the device is activated are able to pick up, store the excrements inside the bag. Optionally, the device may include other elements such as lights, a retractable leash a cylindrical base and a separator unit.

Abstract: A waste collection device comprising a handle having a grip end and a head end; a head assembly mounted to the head end of the handle defining an opening for receiving and attaching a bag comprising: a symmetric head structure; a pair of peg supports on either side of the head structure; a pair of arm supports mounted to the head structure and extending away from the head structure; and a blade having blade arm portions mounted to the pair of arm supports and a flat spade portion on a first side for scooping waste droppings from a flat surface into the bag, and a rounded tongue for scooping waste from an irregular surface into the bag; such that the bag fits in the opening formed by the head assembly, is folded over the arm supports and the a portion of the blade, and is secured to the head assembly.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for a hand held device for collecting waste material deposits. In one exemplary embodiment the device comprises a frame with a grip portion, and a waste receptacle with an open end for receiving a waste material deposit. The exemplary device may further comprise a pivoting scoop adapted to swing between a loading position in which the scoop extends generally away from the grip end of the frame, and a dispensing position in which the scoop is generally juxtaposed with the open end of the waste receptacle.

Abstract: An excrements cleaning device, includes a cleaning bag, a cleaning supporting unit, and a cleaning bag releasing unit. The cleaning supporting unit includes an upper cover, a lower cover, and an opening elastic verge ring. The upper cover and the lower cover are pressed tightly and assembled fixedly to form a groove for receiving the opening elastic verge ring. The bag mouth is clamped between the groove and the opening elastic verge ring. An opening groove for moving the cleaning bag releasing unit back and forth is formed on a stern of the upper cover. A tensioning locking position and a releasing locking position are formed on a front part and a rear part of the opening groove.

Abstract: A waste disposal scoop comprising a conical body, where the conical body extends between a base at a lower portion to an folded edge at an upper portion, a front flap attached to the folded edge, where the front flap folds to rest against the conical body, a back scoop attached to an opposing portion of the conical body from the folded edge, where the back scoop lifts an amount of animal waste to slide the animal waste into the conical body, and an adhesive strip attached to an end of the front flap, wherein the adhesive strip secures the front flap to the back scoop after the amount of animal waste is inside the conical body.

Abstract: A collector device (1) includes an elongate handle portion (2) having a loop portion (4) attached at one end. The loop portion (4) supports a receptacle (12) which comprises an upwardly facing, in use, deposition surface (16). The handle (2) and loop portions (4) are of a self supporting sheet material and have a longitudinal fold in the sheet material (8) running along the length of the handle portion (2) and continuing across the whole loop portion (4). The device (1) may be deployed with the handle (2) and loop portions (4) both held partially folded along the longitudinal fold (8) in a V or inverted V conformation to provide increased rigidity and increased load bearing capacity, in cantilever, in comparison with a device where the handle and loop portions are held horizontally planar.

Abstract: A clean-up device for picking-up, containing, and disposing of pet waste. The device includes a handbag for housing a liner feeding mechanism, motor-vacuum, and suction hose. The liner feeding mechanism positions a liner over an opening of the handbag. The suction hose is actuated by the motor-vacuum and inwardly pulls the liner with waste into the suction hose. The motor-vacuum sanitarily shrink wraps the liner around the waste. Once wrapped, the waste is disposed of directly into a trash receptacle. The handbag includes a telescoping handle including buttons which electronically communicate with a control panel to actuate the motor-vacuum, suction hose, and liner feeding mechanism. While in use, a user simply places the opening of the handbag directly over waste and presses the buttons to pick-up, wrap, and dispose of waste in a safe, efficient, and sanitary manner.

Abstract: An animal waste collection tool has a body and a rotatable hoop connected to one end of the body that is rotatable between a folded and an extended position. A hoop-securing clip is attached to the body and secures the hoop in the extended or folded position. In the extended position the band forms an opening in which a bag is inserted for collection of unsanitary waste. The body is hollow and has a removable cover for inserting bags and a dispensing opening through which bags are removed. A clip on the body secures a bag inserted through the band. A bag is partially inserted through the band, secured to the clip, and pulled over the side of the band to cover it. Waste is collected in the bag, which pulls the bag through the band of material and leaves the bag hanging from the clip.

Abstract: A device for collecting and packaging solid waste or toxic material is provided. A first arm and a second arm are coupled with a lever, wherein at least one arm is slidably coupled with the lever. A bag may be positioned in an open position when the first arm is located distally from the second arm, and the bag may be closed by an operator manipulating the arms towards each other. The device may include a motor and/or a spring or springs to drive the arms towards or away from each other. A plate, a pole and/or a handle may be coupled with the arms. The plate may be positioned relative to the arms to stabilize the waste or toxic material for insertion into the bag. The bag may include an adhesive, paper, plastic, recycled plastic and/or cellulose.

Abstract: Apparatus are provided for collecting pet waste. In embodiments a grapple coupled to a housing is selectively operable between a closed position in which the grapple and housing substantially enclose a body compartment and an open position in which the grapple and housing define a mouth in communication with the body compartment. A handle is coupled to the housing, and a grapple control on the handle is configured to selectively operate the grapple between the open and closed positions. The grapple control may comprise a grip lever. A bag roll may be supported inside the body compartment by an axle mount. Bags may be unspooled from the bag roll and, without being torn from the bag roll, placed over a portion of the housing and the grapple to provide a sanitary barrier between the apparatus and pet waste.

Abstract: The Doggie Scoop, included with a disposable plastic bag, is a device for the efficient and sanitary collection and disposal of canine fecal matter (dog poop). Before using the Doggie Scoop, insert a disposable plastic bag into Scoop, then, when a dog gets ready to poop, slide the lock on the handle of the Scoop forward with your thumb to open the Scoop (which will be opened horizontally), then slide the extension of the Scoop under the dog to catch the poop. The extension of the Scoop should lie flat against the ground since dogs usually squat close to the ground when they poop. The wheels on the Doggie Scoop help in sliding the Scoop under the dog, and since the wheels can rotate 360 degrees, the Scoop can be moved in any direction to accommodate any movement of the dog. When the dog is finished, slide the Scoop out from under the dog, squeeze the handle on the Scoop to close the Scoop, and with your thumb, slide the lock on the handle of the Scoop backward to lock the Scoop and keep it closed.

Abstract: A scoop device having a scoop and a handle with an articulated connection that allows for a sift plate to be operated by manual manipulation of an actuator bar. The actuator bar is operatively connected to the sift plate by means of a reciprocating bar in an articulating manner. The sift plate is positioned to slide along the bottom of the scoop. The actuator bar, which is contained within and a part of the handle, may be spring biased. The scoop bottom and sift plate may include slotted openings. Manipulation of the actuator bar causes the reciprocating bar to rotate, in turn causing the sift plate to move back and forth, thereby sifting, straining or otherwise separating fresh particulate from scoop.

Abstract: The present invention provides a reclosable storage bag for packaging/containing and transporting objects, such as food. The reclosable storage bag may include a flexible inner liner contoured to the shape of a user's hand and have one or more closure members for sealing the ends of the bag. The user may store food in an interior storage area of the bag and may use the flexible inner liner to grab or hold onto the food so that the user will not have to directly touch the food while eating.

Abstract: A pet waste bags dispenser provided for dispensing animal waste bags, having a collapsible container, a dispenser cavity cover and a dispensing means, wherein the dispensing means allows waste bags placed within the waste bags dispenser to be dispensed to a user easily and conveniently. The collapsible waste bags dispenser is made of a collapsible material, such that the dispenser is easy to store, light in weight, simple to manufacture, and has the flexibility to contain different amounts of waste bags within the collapsible container, wherein rolls of or individually wrapped waste bags are allowed to be dispensed. The collapsible waste bags dispenser further has external connecting means for connecting the waste bags dispenser to a foreign object, so as to facilitate the user to easily obtain a waste bag from the dispenser.

Abstract: A pet waste scoop, e.g., cat litter scoop, having a relatively large mouth opening includes body having an open end opposite a closed end and defining an interior therebetween for receiving pet waste for easy disposal thereof. A handle is integrally formed with the body and extends downwardly toward the closed end a predetermined distance such that the user may easily grasp the handle for manipulating the pet waste scoop while maintaining his or her hand a safe distance from the pet waste to be scooped. A plurality of elongate slot-shaped apertures that can be curvilinear are formed within a front surface opposite the handle for sifting the litter scooped with the pet waste scoop. The apertures are defined by a number of rounded elongate sifting bars that also can be of curvilinear construction and configured to prevent pet waste and/or litter build up within the apertures.

Abstract: A pet leash and waste pick-up device comprises a retractable waste pick-up tool which is conveniently disposed in a sheath housing compartment on the leash device. When it is necessary to pick up and dispose of pet waste, the tool is removed from the sheath housing, expanded to a usable orientation, and fitted with a plastic waste bag. The device is then maneuvered so that the center of the bag is positioned over the waste to be removed. At this point, the tool is retracted, thereby closing the bag over the waste. The bag can then be simply removed from the tool, sealed appropriately, and stored for disposal, without risk of the user directly contacting the waste.

Abstract: Apparatus (10) for pet waste disposal including a portable waste collection receptacle (12) disposed on a handle (13), characterized by a heat source (14) mounted together with the waste collection receptacle (12), capable of incinerating waste (15) disposed in the waste collection receptacle (12).

Abstract: A dog litter glove or mitten for collecting dog litter comprising: a hand section; a closure mechanism at an open end of the glove; and an elongated midsection, where said midsection extends down from the hand section and abuts a cuff section, where said cuff section includes a width greater than the width of the midsection. The closure mechanism may include at least one of a zip lock seal and a twist tie. The cuff of the dog litter glove may be rolled up to turn the glove inside out to create a sealed flexible container for the dog litter disposable.

Abstract: A device aiding the collection of animal waste, flexibly in a large variety of bags readily available to the user, has a frame defining an opening through which an animal waste disposal bag can be fed and against which the mouth of the bag can be held open; a scoop member attached to and extending forward of the frame and cooperating with the opening, so that animal waste scooped up into the scoop member can be manipulated through the opening into the mouth of the bag held open against the frame; a handle attached to or integrated into the frame; and at least one bag position holder attached to or integrated into the frame at a position opposing the position on the frame at which the handle is attached or integrated. A kit containing the device and a method of using the device to collect animal waste are also disclosed.

Abstract: A disposable dog waste handling device includes a framework; and a flexible bag, attached to the framework, having a portion capable of lying flat under the dog to capture feces eliminated from the dog, the bag adapted to retain the feces when the device is lifted. The device may be operated by a user using one hand so that, when the user lifts an end of the framework, the bag retains the feces and the user does not feel the eliminated feces. The framework includes a strip of flexible material that forms a loop, and the bag may not detach from the material. The entire device is then thrown away.

Abstract: Multifunctional packaging containers and methods of use are disclosed. An exemplary container typically comprises a body section having a generally flat rectangular shape when in a flattened configuration. The container transforms into a generally elongated cylindrical shape when in the closed configuration. The exemplary container also comprises a first and second side wall. A handle assembly may also be included. Additionally, the container typically includes one or more securing mechanisms adapted to lock the contents therein. Methods of using the container include using it as a disposable pet waste scooper or general storage compartment.