Apparatus and methods for refuse collection

A method of collecting pet refuse using a pet refuse collection apparatus, the method comprising:

• providing a first frame portion comprising a first refuse bag support member, a second refuse bag support member, and a first handle, wherein the first refuse bag support member and the second refuse bag support member are adapted to support a refuse bag;
• providing a second frame portion comprising a receptacle member and a second handle, wherein the receptacle member is fixedly attached to a distal end of the second handle, and the receptacle member is configured to provide additional support around the refuse bag;
• securing the first handle and the second handle together using a sliding handle grip, thereby forming a combined handle for the pet refuse collection apparatus;
• moving the sliding handle grip along a length of the combined handle to control a position of at least one of:
• the first refuse bag support member, the second refuse bag support member, and the receptacle member;
• moving the sliding handle grip in a first direction along the length of the combined handle to contract the first refuse bag support member and the second refuse bag support member inward;
• placing the refuse bag onto the first refuse bag support member and the second refuse bag support member;
• moving the sliding handle grip in a second direction along the length of the combined handle to expand the first refuse bag support member and the second refuse bag support member outward to hold the refuse bag open, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction;
• collecting pet refuse into the refuse bag;
• moving the sliding handle grip in the first direction along the length of the combined handle to contract the first refuse bag support member and the second refuse bag support member inward to facilitate removal of a soiled refuse bag;
• and
• removing the soiled refuse bag from the first refuse bag support member and the second refuse bag support member.