Starting a green pet care business doesn’t begin with products — it begins with purpose. What drives your service isn’t just a love of animals, but a clear commitment to sustainability that customers can feel in every interaction. That starts with how you talk about your mission — clearly, locally, and with proof behind the claims. If you’re serious about standing out in a crowded market, it’s not enough to say you care about the planet; you have to show how. A strong green identity creates customer trust before you even meet their pet. And the moment you begin articulating this through services, policies, and partnerships, you’ve already done more than most.

Define a Green Mission That Sticks

Eco-friendly branding only works if it connects with a real set of values. What matters most is that your mission isn’t vague — it’s specific enough to act on. You’re not just “eco-aware,” you’re using compostable bags, walking routes instead of short car trips, and partnering with sustainable vendors. Start by writing that mission down in plain language. Make sure it explains your values, your actions, and how those two connect. Then, build your whole business to reflect launching an eco-friendly pet care business.

Eco-Conscious Pet Waste Practices

If you’re in the pet care space, waste is unavoidable — but how you handle it makes all the difference. Move beyond plastic bags and scented gimmicks. Partner with experienced services like Scoopmasters, educate your clients, and implement eco-conscious pet waste practices that reduce landfill impact and improve sanitation. You don’t have to overhaul the industry — just set an example. Be the provider who explains what “flushable” really means, or who offers a composting option. Small shifts in how you deal with mess make a big impression.

Make Operations Match the Mission

Too many pet care startups claim “eco-friendly” without adjusting their operations. Swap single-use pet wipes for washable cloths, and replace toxic sprays with plant-based cleaners that won’t harm animals or the environment. Choose cruelty-free shampoos that biodegrade and leave no trace in the water system. This is where sustainable practice meets daily action, and where your values get tested. If your gear and supplies don’t match your marketing, your clients will notice. What sets apart truly conscious businesses are the eco-friendly practices that make a difference.

Leverage Business Management Experiential Learning

Eco values won’t carry a business if you’re not trained to run one. Sustainable pet care demands long-term thinking, planning, and operational discipline. A bachelor of business management experiential learning track can ground your passion in real-world practices — from marketing plans to cost forecasting. Don’t skip the fundamentals just because your mission is heartfelt. Learning how to hire, scale, and systematize your service is what turns a one-person dog-walking gig into a company with legs. And you’ll need every skill if you want to grow without compromising your values.

Understand Regulations Before You Break Them

Eco is not a loophole — it’s a commitment that must align with real policies. When you’re setting up your pet care business, don’t skip the part where you dig into local ordinances around animal waste, greywater runoff, and chemical usage. Getting this wrong could put your business — and the environment — at risk. Use your compliance as a competitive advantage, especially if you’re targeting clients who already care about sustainability. It shows you’re not just following the rules — you’re leading with them. Stay updated on green policies in pet care to stay aligned and protected.

Budget With Sustainability in Mind

Running an eco-focused pet care operation isn’t just a branding decision — it’s a budgeting one too. You’ll need to allocate funds not just for eco-friendly supplies, but also for marketing, certifications, and sustainable transportation. This isn’t about cutting corners — it’s about making choices that align with your brand and your future. Financial planning becomes the backbone of your green mission, helping you balance principle with practicality. You’re not just managing money; you’re building resilience. Here’s how to budget smart for a pet care business without losing sight of your values.

Tell a Story That Your Customers Can Feel

Eco-friendly businesses often stumble in how they explain themselves. You don’t need a thesis — you need a story. Talk about how you choose your materials, why you walk instead of drive, how your composting system works. Use social media to show the quiet details that add up to a sustainable experience. Marketing is where your mission gets personal, and your clients want to see that. Learn from these pet marketing strategies that connect and build a following that’s aligned with your vision.

You don’t need a massive team or a tech stack to start a sustainable pet care service — you need focus. Get clear on your mission, build systems that reflect it, and choose your resources wisely. Let your values shape everything: from your scheduling app to your poop bags. Talk openly about how you operate and why it matters. Your customers will care more if they can see what you do differently. And in a world crowded with options, being clear, consistent, and genuinely green is what will keep them coming back.

With locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Dallas, Austin and Nashville, and soon in Houston, Scoop Masters pet waste removal helps dog owners enjoy their yard again. Since 1988, we’ve been enforcing the “no flies” zone in backyards, patios and dog runs by keeping them dog poop free. We also offer a sanitizing service to help get rid of the smell on rocks, concrete and artificial turf. Contact us for a free quote. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!

The post Launching Your Own Eco-Friendly In-Home Pet Care Business appeared first on Scoop Masters.

Why Fireworks Freak Dogs Out

Let’s start with the technical basics: Dogs hear way better than we do. Humans can hear up to about 20,000 Hz. Dogs? Up to 65,000 Hz. That means when a firework goes off, it’s not just “loud” to them — it’s a full-body assault of BOOM. And they don’t know it’s for fun. You can’t exactly explain to them that “Don’t worry, Sparky, it’s just America celebrating freedom by blowing things up in the air.” All they know is: sky make big noise, I must hide in bathtub now, because I won’t fit under the bed.

Dog Breeds: Who Handles Fireworks Best (and Worst)?

Not all dogs react the same way to fireworks. Some are cool cucumbers. Others turn into trembling, panting, furry puddles.

Breeds That Tend to Cope Well With Fireworks:

• Retrievers (Golden, Labrador): Often more chill and used to hunting noises.
• Bulldogs & Pugs: These couch potatoes may not be thrilled, but they’re also not exactly athletic enough to panic-jump through windows.
• Greyhounds: Surprisingly calm in chaotic environments, especially retired racers.

Breeds That Are More Sensitive:

• Border Collies & Australian Shepherds: Super smart, super aware — and often super anxious. Did I mention super hyper?
• Chihuahuas: Born to panic. Loud noises? Absolutely not. My Chihuahua started shaking when hail was hitting the roof during the last storm.
• German Shepherds: Protective and alert — sometimes a bit too alert.
• Shih Tzus & Yorkies: These small dogs often have a big fear of loud sounds.

Of course, every dog is different. One Labrador might nap through a fireworks finale; another might try to dig a tunnel to Canada. Breed is just one part of the equation. Training has a lot to do with it too. I work with several guide dogs who do surprising well during the July fourth celebrations.

Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe & Calm During Fireworks

🐾 1. Get Ahead of It

Don’t wait until dusk on the 4th to prepare. Check local fireworks schedules — some neighborhoods or towns celebrate on different days. And be aware of your town’s local ordinances – are ordinances (fireworks) legal to set off in your neighborhood? Start setting up your dog’s safe zone a few days in advance. This could be a cozy crate, a closet, or a corner with blankets and their favorite toys. The idea is to create a den-like environment where they can hide (and feel in control).

🐾 2. Close the Windows, Close the Curtains

The sound is bad enough, but the flashing lights can make things worse. Keep your windows shut and curtains drawn to muffle the noise and block the strobe show.

Bonus: it also keeps your dog from trying to jump through the window to escape. Yes, that happens.

🐾 3. ID Tags & Microchips

Every year, shelters report a spike in runaway pets on July 4th. Make sure your dog’s collar has up-to-date ID tags and that they’re microchipped, just in case they try to do their best Houdini impression.

🐾 4. Background Noise Helps

A little white noise or soothing music can go a long way. Some people swear by reggae, classical music, or even dog-calming playlists. (Yes, those exist. Try searching for “Spotify for Dogs.”) Or just leave the TV on with something boring and predictable — maybe a documentary about left-handed accordion music. Maybe even bagpipes! Your dog will wish for fireworks at that point.  Basically, anything that makes fireworks less noticeable.

🐾 5. Try a Thundershirt or Compression Wrap

These tight-fitting garments apply gentle pressure to your dog’s torso, kind of like a weighted blanket. It can help calm anxiety — and make your dog look like they’re ready for a workout montage.

🐾 6. Treats, Toys & Distractions

Give them something to focus on besides the terrifying sky war. Frozen Kongs filled with peanut butter, long-lasting chews, or puzzle toys are great. (But skip the squeaky toys — they’ll just add more noise to the chaos.) If your pet is the drinking type, perhaps a shot of good Tequila will do the trick. OK, maybe not, that’s more for me.

🐾 7. Don’t Punish. Don’t Over-Reassure.

If your dog is losing it, don’t scold them — fear isn’t disobedience. But also, don’t overdo the “It’s okay, it’s okay, you’re okay!” routine. That can accidentally reinforce the idea that something really is wrong. Instead, stay calm, act normal, and be the grounded, chill pack leader they need.

🐾 8. Talk to Your Vet

If your dog has an especially rough time with fireworks, ask your vet about anti-anxiety meds or calming supplements. There are even pheromone diffusers that mimic a dog mother’s calming scent (basically doggy aromatherapy).

What NOT to Do

• Don’t bring your dog to the fireworks show. Even if they “did fine last year,” one loud bang too close can change everything.
• Don’t leave them outside. Ever. Even fenced yards are no match for a panicked dog in flight mode.
• Don’t assume they’ll be fine. Even the most chill dog can have a bad reaction, especially as they age.

After the Fireworks: A Quick Check-In

Once the chaos is over, give your dog some love, a potty break, and a chance to decompress. If they’ve been hiding under the bed for two hours, they’ll appreciate some cuddles, water, and maybe a leftover hot dog (just hold the onions). And hey, if they were super brave this year, give them an extra treat, like the shot of Tequila mentioned earlier. Bravery comes in all shapes and sizes.

In Conclusion: Fireworks Are for Humans, Safety Is for Dogs

We get it — fireworks are part of the tradition. But so is protecting the ones we love, and for many of us, that includes a certain tail-wagging, belly-rubbing, treat-loving family member. So, this July 4th, while you’re grilling steaks and watching the sky sparkle, remember to make it a celebration your dog can enjoy from the safety of a quiet corner with a peanut butter Kong. They might not understand freedom, but they’ll definitely appreciate not feeling like the world is ending.

Stay safe, stay pawsitive, and give your dog an extra snuggle from us.

With locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Dallas, Austin and Nashville, Scoop Masters pet waste removal helps dog owners enjoy their yard again. Since 1988, we’ve been enforcing the “no flies” zone in backyards, patios and dog runs by keeping them dog poop free. We also offer a sanitizing service to help get rid of the smell on rocks, concrete and artificial turf. Contact us for a free quote. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!

The post Kaboom! Keeping Your Dog Safe (and Sane) This July 4th appeared first on Scoop Masters.

When an accident occurs involving a company vehicle, determining liability can be a complex issue. The outcome depends on factors such as the employee’s role, the nature of the trip, and the company’s policies. Some of the same “rules” apply with employees as they do to everyone else. The person in the back is usually at fault for not allowing enough distance between them and the vehicle in front.

Understanding Liability in Company Vehicle Accidents

• Employer Liability (Vicarious Liability): Employers may be held responsible for accidents caused by employees during work-related tasks, under the doctrine of “respondeat superior.” That’s why Scoop Masters carries commercial auto insurance.
• Employee Liability: If an employee uses a company vehicle for personal reasons without authorization, they might be personally liable for any accidents.
• Insurance Coverage: Typically, a company’s insurance policy covers accidents involving company vehicles. However, coverage details can vary, and personal auto insurance may also play a role.
• State Laws: Liability can also be influenced by state-specific laws and regulations regarding employer responsibility and insurance requirements.

Percentage of U.S. Drivers Without Auto Insurance

In 2024, it’s estimated that around 14% of drivers in the US are uninsured. This means that about one in seven drivers are driving without insurance. In addition,  the Insurance Research Council reported a rise from 11% in 2019 to 14% in 2022, with initial data for 2023 suggesting a continued upward trend. This percentage can vary by state, with some states experiencing higher rates of uninsured motorists.

My personal opinion, and it’s just my opinion: In 2019 and 2020 during the height of covid-19, many people were simply not driving and decided to cancel their insurance. By the time they started driving again, the costs were so high, that many decided to take their chances without it. Again, that’s just my personal opinion.

What to Do When Involved in a Vehicle Accident

Being involved in a vehicle accident can be stressful. It’s essential to stay calm and follow these steps to ensure safety and proper documentation:

1. Check for Injuries: Assess yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries. Get medical attention if needed.
2. Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and turn on hazard lights. Take a picture of their license beforehand, if possible, just in case they decide to bolt.
3. Call Authorities: Contact the police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. More than likely, they will not bother if there are no injuries. Even for a hit and run.
4. Exchange Information: Share and collect names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
5. Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any relevant road conditions.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not admit fault at the scene; let the insurance companies and authorities determine liability.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer promptly, providing all necessary information.
8. Consult an Attorney: If there are disputes over liability or significant damages, consider seeking legal advice.

By following these steps, you can navigate the aftermath of a vehicle accident more effectively, ensuring your rights and safety are protected.

Conclusion

Determining liability in accidents involving company vehicles requires careful consideration of employment status, the nature of the trip, and applicable insurance policies. Understanding the steps to take after an accident and being aware of the prevalence of uninsured drivers can help you be better prepared and protect your interests.

Last week makes about 7 accidents (and one vehicle fire, but that’s another story) involving a Scoop Masters vehicle from all locations. I’m not sure that’s good, bad or average. What I do know, is that it causes our insurance rates to go up regardless of who’s at fault, and that cost gets passed onto our clients as a part of doing business.

With locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Dallas, Austin and Nashville, Scoop Masters pet waste removal helps dog owners enjoy their yard again. Since 1988, we’ve been enforcing the “no flies” zone in backyards, patios and dog runs by keeping them dog poop free. We also offer a sanitizing service to help get rid of the smell on rocks, concrete and artificial turf. Contact us for a free quote. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!

The post Who Is Liable for an Accident in a Company Vehicle? appeared first on Scoop Masters.

Fear not, though! With a little know-how and some thoughtful waste management, you can protect the health, appearance, and charm of your backyard lawn. By understanding the unspoken war waged by dog waste and taking proactive steps, you’ll preserve the lush beauty of your yard for all to enjoy—both furry friends and their human companions alike.

What’s in That Dog Poop Anyway?

To truly understand how dog poop can damage your lawn, it’s essential to delve into the chemical composition of canine waste. Dog feces are not just simple organic matter; they contain a wide array of substances that can have both beneficial and harmful effects on the health of your lawn. A closer look reveals the presence of nitrogen, salts, phosphorus, potassium, and even harmful bacteria. These elements, when in proper balance, are crucial for plant growth, but when they accumulate in concentrated areas, they can wreak havoc on the landscape. And nobody wants that!

Nitrogen and Its Role in Lawn Health

One of the most prominent components in dog waste is nitrogen. This nutrient is a key ingredient in most fertilizers because it encourages healthy, green growth in plants. In small, controlled amounts, nitrogen can be an asset to your lawn. However, when too much nitrogen from dog waste accumulates in one area, it can overload the soil and result in what many gardeners refer to as “burn spots.” These are unsightly yellow or brown patches on the grass, where the nitrogen essentially “scorches” the plant, causing it to wither and die.

The effect of nitrogen toxicity is not always immediate, and the damage can become more pronounced over time if dog poop is left unattended. This is particularly noticeable in high-traffic dog areas where owners may not be picking up after their pets regularly. These brown spots can actually happen faster with dog urine than dog waste. I’ve personally seen some damage after only a couple of days.

Phosphorus and Potassium: Essential, But Tricky

In addition to nitrogen, dog poop also contains phosphorus and potassium, both of which are important nutrients for plant growth. Phosphorus supports the development of strong root systems, while potassium helps with overall plant health and disease resistance. However, similar to nitrogen, an imbalance of these elements can cause harm to your lawn. And, as I mentioned earlier, nobody wants that!

Dog waste is not a naturally balanced fertilizer. See my article here. The phosphorus and potassium levels found in dog poop often exceed what the lawn can absorb in a healthy way. This can lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil, which in turn disrupts the overall health of the grass. Over time, this can weaken the lawn, making it more susceptible to disease, pests, and environmental stressors.

The Hidden Dangers: Bacteria and Parasites

Aside from the nutrients, dog feces can also harbor harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses that can have significant health implications for both humans and animals. Though quite rare, some of the most common threats found in dog poop include E. coli, Salmonella, and parasites such as roundworms and giardia. These pathogens can survive in the soil for extended periods, and if the contaminated area is not properly cleaned or treated, they can easily spread to other animals or humans who come into contact with the waste. In my 38 years of professionally scooping poop, I’ve only seen 2 cases of giardia.

Canine Parvovirus is another well-known virus that can be transmitted through dog feces, posing a serious threat to other dogs. Although it is less likely to affect the grass directly, the long-term health risks posed by contaminated areas cannot be ignored. For pet owners and community members alike, proper waste management practices are necessary to avoid the spread of these harmful bacteria and viruses.

How Can I Prevent This Damage?

While dog poop is a natural byproduct of owning a pet, managing its impact on your lawn is entirely in your control. By adopting proper pet waste management strategies, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure that your lawn remains healthy and vibrant. Here are some practical steps that dog owners can take to prevent damage to their lawn:

1. Regular Clean-Up

The most important step in managing dog poop is simply cleaning it up regularly. The longer dog waste sits on the lawn, the more it can harm the grass. Make it a habit to scoop up after your dog immediately or as soon as possible after they go. Keeping a few bags or waste disposal tools in easy-to-reach spots in common areas will make it easier for pet owners to pick up waste quickly. Don’t want to do it? Call in a professional, like Scoop Masters, to take care of this chore for you.

2. Designate Pet Waste Areas

If you live in a home with a large yard, you might consider installing a dog run for your pet. That will keep the waste contained in a smaller area and will be easier to maintain. If your yard isn’t the size of a football field, you can still train your dog to go in certain areas. Perhaps a small patch of artificial turf or decomposed granite.

3. Fertilizing and Lawn Care

Because dog poop adds a lot of nitrogen to the soil, it’s important to regularly fertilize your lawn to ensure that it has the nutrients it needs to thrive. Be sure to balance the nitrogen levels in the soil with other essential nutrients to prevent nutrient imbalances. Most lawn care professionals can help you with this. Additionally, aerating your lawn can help with the absorption of nutrients and improve overall grass health. Side note: Aerated lawns are a pooper scooper worse nightmare. The plugs look a lot like dog poop!

4. Use Waste Decomposers

For those looking for an environmentally friendly option, there are pet waste decomposers available that can help break down dog poop. These products are often enzymes or microbes that can speed up the decomposition process, making it safer for the soil and reducing harmful bacteria. These decomposers can be sprinkled on the affected area after the waste has been picked up.

5. Regular Lawn Inspection

Keep an eye on your lawn for any signs of damage, such as yellow or brown spots, which might indicate overexposure to nitrogen or other imbalances caused by dog poop. Regularly inspecting the lawn will help you catch any problems early and allow you to take corrective measures before the damage becomes extensive.

Let’s Not forget Dog Urine

Ah, the mysterious power of dog urine on lawns—something so small and seemingly harmless, yet capable of transforming even the most lush, vibrant grass into a patchy battlefield. When your dog lifts its leg and marks its territory, the magic happens: nitrogen, salts, and other compounds flood the soil, eager to make their mark. The result? A sudden, uninvited burn spot, where the grass turns from green to yellow, as if your dog has summoned a little too much of Mother Nature’s fiery wrath. It’s like the lawn is saying, “I can handle a little, but seriously, not this much!”

But that’s not all, dear lawn enthusiasts. Along with nitrogen comes an array of salts, which, while not nearly as charismatic as nitrogen, are just as destructive. These salts dry out the soil, stealing precious moisture away from the grass and making it even harder for those delicate blades to thrive. The end result is a patchwork of brown, thirsty spots that will make you long for the days when your grass was untouched by canine whizardry. (Pun intended)

Conclusion

While dog poop may seem like a minor nuisance in your green spaces, the effects it can have on your lawn are anything but trivial. By understanding the chemical composition of dog waste & dog pee, and the damage they can cause, pet owners can take proactive measures to maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn. With regular cleanup, responsible pet waste management, and proper lawn care, you can ensure that your yard remains a beautiful space for all to enjoy—both pets and people alike.

With independently owned locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Dallas, Austin and Nashville, Scoop Masters pet waste removal helps dog owners enjoy their yard again. Since 1988, we’ve been enforcing the “no flies” zone in backyards, patios and dog runs by keeping them dog poop free. We also offer a sanitizing service to help get rid of the smell on rocks, concrete and artificial turf. Contact us for a free quote. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!

The post Will Dog Poop Kill Grass? appeared first on Scoop Masters.

Strawberries: The Berry Best (and a Great Treat!)

Yes, dogs can eat strawberries, and not just for their sweetness—these juicy red berries are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s basically nature’s candy, but with fewer sugar crashes. Bonus: most dogs love them, so you can be the hero who gives them a treat that’s both healthy and delicious. But a warning: too many strawberries can cause an upset tummy. (No one wants to clean up that mess, except maybe Scoop Masters), so keep it to a few per snack time.

If you’re lucky enough to have a dog who doesn’t look at strawberries like they’re tiny red alien orbs from another planet, you’re in for a real treat. Just remember, moderation is key!

Bananas: The Doggy Potassium Powerhouse

Your dog can definitely enjoy a banana or two. These potassium-packed fruits can help with muscle function, making them a great snack for active pups. Just peel it, slice it up, and serve it in bite-sized pieces. But a quick word of caution: bananas are also pretty high in sugar, so think of them as an occasional treat—don’t make your dog’s diet all about the banana split (even though they’d probably love it).

Bananas are perfect for training treats or as a little extra after a long walk. And trust us, you may not like to carry around a banana, but your dog will love that squishy goodness! Just remember not to overdo it, or you might find yourself dealing with the “banana belly blues.” Or worse yet, finding out they didn’t like them after all and left them on the floor… for you to step on!

Apples: Crunchy, Refreshing, and Full of Fiber

Apples are one of the safest fruits for dogs, but there’s a twist—don’t let your dog chow down on the core or seeds! Apple seeds contain cyanide, and that’s a no-go. Although, my dogs have never had a problem with the seeds. At least not yet. The rest of the apple is a great source of fiber and vitamin A, so you can slice up the fruit into bite-sized pieces and let your dog enjoy the crispy crunch. You can also wait for them to beg them from you while you try to eat them. Just remember, moderation is key—if they’re a little too apple-happy, you might face some extra trips outside.

So, go ahead, let your dog indulge in the crunchy goodness of an apple, just be sure to keep the seeds and core far away from them. You know, for their safety (and your peace of mind). Plus, it’s always fun to watch them try to figure out how to eat that giant apple slice you gave them!

Grapes: The Fruit That’s Just Plain Trouble

Grapes—yes, those tiny, sweet, little orbs of heaven—are a big no-no for dogs. And we’re serious about this. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, and even small amounts can lead to major health issues. So, as tempting as it might be to share your fruit bowl with your pup, this is one fruit you should keep out of reach. It’s not worth the risk.

As much as your dog might give you those sad puppy eyes when you pop a grape in your mouth, resist the urge to share. The potential danger is just too high. Play it safe and stick to other dog-approved treats. Again, my Labrador didn’t seem to have any trouble with grapes and she lived to be 16+ years.

Blueberries: Tiny, Tasty, and Full of Antioxidants

Good news! Blueberries are not only safe for dogs, but they’re also tiny enough that you can throw them across the room for a fun little fetch session. These little powerhouses are rich in antioxidants, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy treat. You can even freeze them for a refreshing snack on hot days. Your dog won’t know whether they’re getting a snack or a game of fetch—and who’s the winner in that situation? Both of you!

Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, blueberries are a fantastic snack that can also promote a healthy immune system. So, next time you’re having a smoothie, toss a couple to your pup—you’ll both be feeling good about it! Or just dump the whole smoothie in their dish and watch the fun.

Tomatoes: A Little Tasty, But Watch Out for Green Parts

Tomatoes are safe for dogs in small amounts—just keep them fresh and avoid the green parts (like stems and leaves). While ripe tomatoes are okay, the green parts contain solanine, a toxic substance for dogs. Serve your dog a slice of the red, ripe goodness, and you’re in the clear. Just don’t go overboard. Too much of anything can cause an upset stomach, and no one wants that after feeding their dog what they thought was a healthy snack.

Tomatoes can be a fun addition to your dog’s diet in moderation, but make sure they’re fully ripe and free from any toxic green bits. I bet they would really like tomatoes in the form of pizza! I know mine do. Your dog will thank you with a wag of the tail and maybe even a little pizza-scented kiss.

Conclusion: A Fruity Feast for Your Pup – With Caution!

Dogs can enjoy a variety of fruits, from strawberries to blueberries, and bananas to apples, as long as you know the rules. Avoid grapes and raisins like the plague, and keep an eye on portion sizes to avoid any tummy troubles. And always—always—remove any seeds or pits that could pose a choking hazard or worse.

The next time your dog gives you those puppy eyes while you’re munching on a snack, you’ll be ready. Instead of feeling guilty, you can offer them a tasty and safe treat that’ll have them wagging their tail in approval (and maybe even doing a little happy dance). Keep it fruity, keep it fun, and keep it safe!

Scoop Masters is your go-to solution for dog waste removal, with locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Dallas, Austin, and Nashville. Since 1988, we’ve been creating “no flies” zones in backyards, patios, and dog runs, ensuring your space stays dog poop-free. Our services also include sanitizing rocks, concrete, and artificial turf to eliminate odors. Insert your zip code on our main page for an instant, free, no-obligation quote. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!

The post Can Dogs Eat Strawberries and Other Fruits? appeared first on Scoop Masters.

Many people don’t even realize that pooper scooper service companies exist. Let me assure you, they do. One of the oldest pet waste removal companies that I know of is Scoop Masters. Founded in 1988, even before the internet was available. How do I know this? Because I’m the founder. The top 3 questions I would get asked are:

1. What do you do? (Duh)
2. What do you do with the dog poop after you pick it up?
3. And, how much does your pooper scooper service cost?

The first answer is easy, we pick up dog poop from your backyard or dog run. Or what I like to say in recent years – “We made a business out of 10 years old’s chore.” The second answer is fun. I always reply – “We toss it on your neighbor’s lawn and leave a card.” That reply still gets laughs. Let’s talk about number 3. (Didn’t know there was a number 3 did ya?)

Pooper Scoop Service Rates – Service Areas

As you may have guessed, rates will vary greatly depending on where you live. For instance, in the Northeast U.S. the rates tend to be a bit higher than most. Why is that? Typically, they will have more snow days than the Southern states. As a result of that, they have to charge a bit more for those days, or even weeks, that they can’t work. Add to that the Fall season when leaves cover the ground, and the poop. It  simply takes a bit longer to find the poop and pick it up. Any location that has a higher cost of living will result in higher rates.

There are also tax issues. Many municipalities force small businesses to collect sales and use tax on our services. I like to say that we don’t charge sales tax, we collect it for the government. Some parishes, townships, boroughs or whatever they may be called, may also require a local tax to be collected. In some areas, you are not allowed to toss dog poop in the trash cans. You have to take it directly to a dump. This extra work certainly adds to the cost of a pooper scooper service.

Then there are the cities that have really large yards, compared to those with postage stamp size yards. You’ve heard of MPH or miles per hour. In the pooper scooper industry, we have SPH or Stops Per Hour. That is what most rates are, or should be, based on. In some cities like Dallas, that number could be 3 or 4. In Santa Clarita, CA that number can be as high as 7 or 8 SPH.

Service Days

Personally, working 5 days a week is ideal. For others, that may be 6 days a week. There a few companies that work 7 days a week. That can have an impact of the cost of service. Whereas, some states require you to pay your employees more on Sundays, holidays and overtime. Small or new start up companies may be limited on what areas they decide to cover due to drive time and traffic. Ideally, they will try to keep their route tight, or as many stops as they can in one area. That may result in only serving certain areas on certain days.

That being said, if you need service on certain days, you may end up paying a premium for that service. Especially if there’s known traffic issues or limited access to get there.

What’s Included in Your Pooper Scooper Service

Did you know that there is more to a professional pooper scooper company than simply picking up dog poop? Many companies offer:

• Sanitizing sprays;
• Hosing off the patio or dog run;
• Disinfecting sprays;
• Trash bin service;
• Water bowl service
• Cat litter box service.

Some of these may be included in the price, others may not. For instance, at Scoop Masters we provide some of these services as an additional up-sell service. The reason being, that many clients didn’t need the sanitizing or the hosing off. So, why charge them for something they don’t need? Other companies include hosing off the residue in their pricing, whether you need it or not. It’s always wise to look into these things when searching for a pet waste removal service.

Number of Dogs

There are many methods used to figure out what to charge for professional scooping services. Some charge per dog, per visit. Others will charge the same rate for 1 and 2 dogs, and a different rate for 3 to 4 dogs. There are even a few newer startups that charge the same rate for up to 4 dogs. Either the 4 dog clients are getting a really good rate, or the one dog client is paying a high rate.

Then there’s the number of service days. Most companies will have a small price break for more services per week. We do that at Scoop Masters. More visits, less poop to pick up with each service. However, we still have to drive out to the location.

Entre-manure or Solopreneur?

Is the pooper scooper you’re looking to hire a business owner? Or a job owner? What’s the difference? The main difference is that a sole proprietor, or solopreneur, doesn’t have to take into account the payroll taxes, workers compensation insurance and other expenses that come with an employee. The only problem with that is it limits growth in their business. When they can no longer service their clients and have to hire help, and they can’t afford it. That’s when the rates have to be raised to a sustainable level.

If you hire an entrepreneur or as we like to say, entre-manure, the expenses are usually much higher because of the aforementioned reasons. As a result of that, they have to charge more for the service. That usually means they will be around for years to come to provide excellent service.

Conclusion

While there are between 600 and 800 pooper scooper companies in the U.S., according to aPaws.org, not all of them are the same. It doesn’t hurt to price shop for a pooper scooper service. Just be aware that in many cases, you get what you pay for. Or perhaps, don’t get what you pay for. I have nothing against new startups that try to undercut the local competition. They have to start somewhere. As long as they provide a quality pooper scooper service.

Scoop Masters is your go-to solution for dog waste removal, with locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Dallas, Austin, and Nashville. Since 1988, we’ve been creating “no flies” zones in backyards, patios, and dog runs, ensuring your space stays dog poop-free. Our services also include sanitizing rocks, concrete, and artificial turf to eliminate odors. Insert your zip code on our main page for an instant, free, no-obligation quote. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X. If your dog can poop it, we can scoop it!

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