How to Start a Pet Waste Disposal Business

It may sound like a strange business opportunity, but many people make a very good living by picking up after other people's dogs. The amount of money you can make will vary according to a number of factors, including how much time you have to devote to the business, the number of customers you are able to attract and of course how many dogs live in your area.

Things You'll Need

  • Pooper scooper
  • Plastic bags
  • Business cards
  • Colorful fliers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Research your local area and try to find out how many dogs live within a given radius of your home. Your business will be more successful and more profitable if you can reduce the number of miles you drive by concentrating your business in a small geographic area. Many counties make census and demographic data available on line, so your county courthouse or county website is a good place to start.

    • 2

      Make sure you secure the necessary business permits and register your business with the state and municipality where you live. If you plan to set your business up as a partnership or corporation, consult an attorney to determine the proper business structure.

    • 3

      Print business cards and hand them out to everyone you meet at your community dog park. One great way to network and build your business is to take your own dog for a walk and hand a card to other dog owners you pass along the way.

    • 4

      Ask local pet stores if you can post fliers for your business on their bulletin board. Many pet store owners will be willing to do this. Just be sure to ask before posting anything anywhere on the premises. You can also post fliers and contact information at area supermarkets and other high-traffic areas.

    • 5
      Networking is key to operating a dog waste business.

      Contact your local county to ask about picking up poop from their parks and walking trails. Even though many communities require pet owners to pick up after their pooches, not everyone will comply, and counties need a way to keep their green spaces clean. In many cases, it will be cheaper to hire an outside service (like yours) than to pay county employees to do this unpleasant job.

    • 6

      Be sure to dispose of the waste from each pet in the trash can at the owner's house. Most pet waste disposal businesses operate in this manner--just make sure that each owner understands the procedure.

    • 7

      Look for pet expos and pet product trade shows that are open to the public. These trade shows and expos are excellent places to set up booths and advertise your pet waste disposal business.

    • 8

      Contact local radio stations and try to get invited on their public affairs shows. Many radio stations will spotlight area businesses, and station managers seem to love offbeat businesses.