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 THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORY OF DOG WASTE REMOVAL SERVICES

Scoopers & Friends Discussion Board Archives

Messages archived from the Scoopers & Friends Discussion Board, going back to May of 1998. The discussion board board is an online forum about the business of pet-waste removal. Browse the messages, CLICK HERE TO SEARCH by keyword, or click here to participate in current discussions.

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Page Sixty-One

Message Date/Time:
Saturday, 26-Aug-00 13:47:44

Finally

I just wanted to share my excitement with all of you, especially those who are just starting out. Hang in there. Don't give up!
I was just about to give up when the phone rang. It was my first customer, very excited and happy that there existed such a service.
She saw my flyer at her local vet.
I faxed her my price list. She called back in five minutes wanting the weekly service for her three dogs.
When I went out to do her yard, she introduced me to her neighbor who wanted the service for her two dogs. Needless to say, doubling my business in one day made me a happy man.
TIP: Go to the more affluent areas.

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Message Date/Time:
Saturday, 26-Aug-00 19:37:18

Re: Finally

i was excited for my first call and went out and gave the bid for once every week and then i was told to do it for two times a month. i should of added a couple of bucks on the visits but did not think of it, being my first bid. he gave me a key to the lock on the back gate. i went a week later to cash the check of a whole $13.00, (i made him pay in advance)and the check would not go threw. i mailed the key and torn up check back. i am not giving up hope but i think i will advertise this service in along with my pet sitting business so i dont have the expense of two ads at a time. the ad is under the pets and suppies in my local paper. i get a good response with this ad for my pet sitting. i was also thinking of adding on a errand service and delivery to my services and see how that goes. i could deliver pet suppies and transport pets to and from vets, groomers, or kennels.

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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 28-Aug-00 21:55:06

Re: Finally

Congrats! You just hang in there. I didn't make a whole lot of $$$$ at the start either. In fact I had considered quiting a few times.Be good to your clients and they will be good to you. It's just what the doctor ordered! Rx....tons of customers :) Dr.Scoop
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Message Date/Time:
Friday, 25-Aug-00 21:13:28

Business plan

I ordered THE book the other day and am anxiously awaiting its arrival. Can anyone please give me pointers for a business plan?
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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 18-Sep-00 17:44:13

Re: Business plan

Bob,

I would plan for slow growth ! I think I was around 12 customers after 6 months. The nice thing is the customers pretty much stick so you can sustain your growth.

I would also suggest putting any money you make back into advertising to grow your business. Plan approx $75 to $100 in advertising to get each new customer.

Does any one else have any insight on this?

Best wishes Barry
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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 19-Sep-00 09:11:08

Re: Re: Business plan

I agree with Barry 100%!
Plan on SLOW growth and lots of frustration. The money is right-on as well. From the MANY marketing things I've tried I've found that I need to get my message in front of around 2,000 people to get one customer - and yes, once I've got 'em, rarely do I loose 'em.
As for your original question - there are tons of good books, software and Web sites on the subject.
Best wishes,
Red
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 24-Aug-00 22:06:29

What happens if ...

What happens if someone out there decide to buy in to his adventure and ruins the name?
and that company happens to be somewhat near your territory that you brought, doesn't make you look good.

I like the idea I control my own company.
If there is a problem I take care of it..
Not hundreds of miles away...

What if you don't like his methods of operation or the way he advertises?
What do you get in start up customers... Is he going to give you enough at the beginning for you to make a living or your $10,000 could of been in the bank making you money?
You could of invested that money and made money and took a chance doing it your self and spent alot less to make it or break it.

Is it His decisions of who gets what in what territory?...
So what happens if you and him don't get along at some point over something?

How long will he advertise for you? ....
T.V. advertising is ok, it takes more than that.
Have you every advertise on tv or had a news story done on you? How many phone call did you really get?

Sounds like a big investment for what...
a name that not known.. (so he was on howard stern, majority of potential customers are not howard stern fans) I know mind aren't...
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Message Date/Time:
Wednesday, 30-Aug-00 01:30:14

Re: What happens if ...

It's nice to see someone start asking questions!
Q1) In our license agreements there sections that will immediately remedy those types of situations (section 14, schedule B)

Q2)How big of a problem could you have in this industry, that can't be handled by business phone, fax, e-mail or cell phone. On top of all those avenues, we will all be networked together via Netcom.

Q3)All of our advertising and operation procedures are talked about openly before buying into Major Doody. I don't believe anyone would object to the agressive National Advertising Campaign that we are putting together. (Approx. 2.3K per year) $10,000.00 of your own money would not buy you 1 commercial on Prime Time TV (ABC, NBC or CBS) Imagine 5 to 12 million people a night (between the hours of 8pm and 11pm) seeing your business name and what you do. By the way, we may even do a Super Bowl commercial this year.

Q4) All of the owners sit down with me and we discuss their territory boundries. How unfair it would be if we came out with, "OK, there are 35,000 people in this area, so that's yours". What if that area was totally poverty sticken? Thats why I go to each area and then together we discuss and create those territories.

Q5) Our License agreements are good for one year. At the end of each term, you can renew the agreement. So if we just don't get along...you only have to put up me for 12 months.

Q6) When I appeared on Howard Stern, (which you claim, you're clients don't listen to, I received 496,000 hits on my web site, 43,183 e-mails, 962 messages on my business phone. What did that produce? Over 350 residential accounts and 18 commercial accounts. I have more than 3,500 names in a data base from that show, waiting for us to open up a territory in their area. I'm not sure about your clients, but demographics on Howard Stern shows 68% of all listeners are between the ages of 25-45 years old, 72% make between $40,000.00 - $80,000.00 and live in metropolitan areas. I don't know if you have any marketing knowledge, but, this IS our target market. Even Matthew e-mailed me and said, "Thats a huge hit, Jack".

So, in conclusion, you're right! It's just not about being on a radio show or a TV show....It's proper agressive marketing techniques on TV, radio, newspapers, flyers, and some other avenues that I have found work very well, that I will not talk about here. So if your clients are not listening to Howard Stern, I wonder if they will be watching ABC, CBS, NBC or the Super Bowl. I KNOW THEY WILL BE!!! Over the course of the next year, Major Doody will be know in every home in America. Our Marketing Company has been given the green light to get as creative and agressive as they possibly can. This year we are budgeting 2.3 million in advertising.

Thanks for asking!
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Message Date/Time:
Friday, 01-Sep-00 16:16:31

Re: What happens if ...

Jack,

Do your licensee's have to pay 10,000 per year to renew or is the cost of renewal reduced?

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Message Date/Time:
Friday, 01-Sep-00 23:37:55

Re: What happens if ...

Hi Barry,

No, to re-up is only $2,000.00 a year or $167.00 a month. This is also the cost to established scoopers who are coming aboard Major Doody. The additional $8,000.00 is waived. So for established scoopers, for $2,000.00 you get to have all the National advertising and the rights to use all the Major Doody Trade Marks (there are 36 trade marks associated with the Company) You would also get my unique pricing formulas for the commercial industry (I now have 67 condo complexes, and I have to estimate 283 more over the 6 months) I also have CD's. On them, is every registered dog owner's name and address from every town in the entire USA. Each territory can purchase those names that are in their area. This is an option, purchasing those names are not manditory. So, if anyone is interested in comming aboard.... (908) 256-3106
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 24-Aug-00 17:42:43

How's this

I dont know about a magazine but...Has there ever been a Pooper scooper convention. It would be tax deductable right? Could be in a different place each year. Product companies could put up most of the cost ..No? It would double as a vacation.
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 24-Aug-00 23:02:18

Re: How's this

I like it! (Vegas?!?) That is actually something I have thought about the past couple of months. Probably because I need a vacation. But more importantly, a lot of name or business recognition, perhaps a few workshops to deal with different concerns about scooping. Example: Route list preparations, marketing, employees HR, etc. the list goes on. I'm going on vacation next week, so it'll have to wait till next year for me.

Tim

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Message Date/Time:
Friday, 25-Aug-00 10:43:06

Re: How's this

I think it is a great idea and would really like to go to Vegas as well. It could be expensed by the business, but only if you have the money in the first place. I would interested to hear how many scoopers out there would actually go to a convention. The info and things learned at a convention would be priceless, as well I think the friendships would be great too. It is also good to get together with others in the same field as you and converse, if not for anything else but a confidence boost. Lets see who else is interested and then we can go from there

Sincerely,
Craig from Canada

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Message Date/Time:
Sunday, 27-Aug-00 03:59:17

Re: How's this

How about Reno/Tahoe? Just up the street and more fun, winter & summer! Debbie & Dwane go ahead and put it together---"build it and they will come" Since I have taught Small Business (home-based) classes at the Community College for 4 years, I would be happy to be a Seminar instructor. How will we get the dogs to stop pooping while we are gone?

Tricia

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Message Date/Time:
Wednesday, 23-Aug-00 17:35:20

Major Doody and Business Opportunity

Hi all: I know by now everyone has probably heard of the big happenings with Major Doody, although it seems to be a topic the message board is avoiding. I have not had a chance to speak with him in a while but I know he is actively working on expanding the Major Doody name. I plan to meet with him (hopefully next week) and find out what he is offering and the cost to those of us who are in the business already. It is my understanding that there are several existing scoopers who have decided to go the Major Doody route. As someone who has not yet made a decision, I would appreciate if those individuals could share with the rest of us what factors influenced them to make that decision. (As well as those who considered it but have decided otherwise.) Scooping like anything else is a business and I know we all have things to protect, but I want to make an informed and thoughtful decision and would greatly appreciate any comments. I love my customers and dont think I would lose them, but the question is will I lose potential new ones? What do you all see as the pluses/minuses of the deal. I cant speak for Major Doody on what his plans are-I have not heard the details yet. Please share, this is a big decision for me and my checkbook.
Thanks.
Ashlee at Doggie Doo Not!

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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 24-Aug-00 23:21:57

Re: Major Doody and Business Opportunity

Aren't we all working on expanding our name? I'm not sure what exactly Major Doody is doing, I think franchising etc. I think it's a good idea if someone is considering the business but not necessary. If you are already in the business, I would concentrate on building your own business. I've read about a scooper service several years ago who was talking about franchising and wanted to charge $5,000.00 for a franchise. Five grand will get you a lot of marketing and advertising! Don't get me wrong, I'm have considered franchising my name too. It might be easier than employees. However, franchising done legally and properly cost a huge chunk of change. Legal fees alone can eat up one franchise agreement. After all, you have to protect your name, your good will, your reputation for exceptional service. You have to have documentation coming out of your ears etc. Anyway, I may be way off the subject, but as with any business opportunity, check the numbers with your attorney and your CPA. Good luck.
Tim

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Message Date/Time:
Saturday, 26-Aug-00 06:21:14

Re: Major Doody and Business Opportunity

I'm not trying to dissuade anyone from falling under the umbrella of a bigger company, via franchise or license agreement - call it what you will. I think some people feel the need to be led and what like the "security" of being part of something larger than they are accustomed. Please don't hold it agianst me if I refer to it as hand-holding to an extent. For $10,000,you'll get a lot of that. Assuming you are associating yourself with the right company, franchising and license agreements are a good idea for some. For others, this is the type of business that can be run very effectively by the "everyday Joe". If $10,000 grand is put into very well placed advertising - newspapers for example, I could easily see that aqcuiring 100 to 200 customers - assuming other factors are favorable i.e. location,etc.
I hope that more of you scoopers weigh in on this subject. It's kind of a taboo around here, is it not?

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Message Date/Time:
Saturday, 26-Aug-00 06:24:02

Re: Major Doody and Business Opportunity

Please excuse my typos in last post. I'm busy, busy , busy and forget to proofread. Matthew, after I send a message, can I retrieve it to edit it?

[MODERATOR'S NOTE: Nope -- after you send the post to the message board, you can't retrieve it. -- Matthew]
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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 29-Aug-00 17:58:17

Re: Major Doody and Business Opportunity

I too have been thinking about joining the Major Doody band wagon, but I have misgivings. For one thing though Jack brought the subject up with me (back in May-June), and I responded with interest, I have not heard a single word from him since. His last word to me was that the lawyers were working on it. Lack of communication always worries me in business.

I like the fact that I own my own business, set my own hours, answer only to my customers, make my own rules, etc. What would becoming a Major Doody do to all that? Would I still own a business? Or would I just work for someone else?

I have decided to put all my efforts into my own business PET MAID, for as long as I can. Hey maybe I'll be the Major's biggest competitor! But I worry. When I did speak with Jack he mentoined having access to millions (a backer?)that he could put into advertising (all major magazines, he said). I don't have that kind of money to invest, (one of the reasons I chose this business in the first place!) and I can not compete with advertising on that scale.

I can suggest that you go to your local library and read all you can about franchises, there is a great deal about them that is not generally known. Of course Jack was talking about licensing agreements rather than strict franchising which is different, and harder to research on your own.

I hope this info helps, Good Luck!

Kelly Connell
PET MAID
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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 19-Sep-00 08:56:31

Re: Major Doody and Business Opportunity

Re: Major Doody and Business Opportunity
Tuesday, 12-Sep-00 11:54:25


Hi everyone.. while I am NOT in this business, though it certainly intrigues me, I would have to say that if any one company(Major Doody for example) decides to franchise and put THAT much advertising into it (millions), I would be joyous, especially if i had my own business providing the same service! Why? Well, for one, once someone franchises one of these services, it will be easier for a phone company to list it in their phone book under a new topic of Pooper Scoopers or something similar.. also, it will draw attention to the service, which, if you are already advertising in the proper places, customers will be drawn to. Beyond that, consider this: McDonalds is one of the largest franchises in the world. Yet, there exists several other franchises AND many, MANY one or two restuarant chains for burgers. And, it seems to me that this service is an INCREDIBLY untapped business that is just DYING for someone to bring it to the forefront. Hell.. look at the big lawn care companies like ChemLawn, etc.. while they provide a decent service, it is the little guy that still gets most of the business. The little guy can undercut the big guys rates and stay in business. And in this business, I can see that advertising and payroll are your primary costs, and maybe vehicle maintenance.. but multiply that by how ever many thousand franchises you have and you are paying a LARGE amount of money, which will more than likely cause your prices to rise... so.. the franchise idea, while nifty, will only help you, in my humble opinion.

This is a damned interesting idea.. one that I am considering... sadly, though, there is a guy in our general area (Mick.. from Oceanside CA) and I'd hate to step on any of his business.)

Chris

Red


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Message Date/Time:
Sunday, 10-Sep-00 15:40:27

WYSIWASH disinfectant

Has anyone used a disinfectant called WYSIWASH? It comes in tablet form in a container that is attached to the end of your hose. Their site says that it is EPA-USDA approved. I have been looking for something that can be used on lawns to spray each spot after it has been scooped.
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Message Date/Time:
Sunday, 10-Sep-00 15:40:27

WYSIWASH disinfectant

Has anyone used a disinfectant called WYSIWASH? It comes in tablet form in a container that is attached to the end of your hose. Their site says that it is EPA-USDA approved. I have been looking for something that can be used on lawns to spray each spot after it has been scooped.
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Message Date/Time:
Sunday, 10-Sep-00 00:05:40

Scoopity Doo Dog On TV

Hi fellow scoopers,
The NBC affiliate in San Diego did a news article on me today that was broadcast on the 6PM news. A film crew came out and filmed while I scooped and interviewed the customer and myself. It was a lot of fun and they mentioned the pooperscooper website and the reporter showed the viewers Matthews book. So if any other stations show this piece maybe some other scoopers will get some business. To see a story about the news article on me (with pictures) go to www.msnbc.com/local/knsd/500373.asp
Happy Scooping
Mick
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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 11-Sep-00 13:41:49

Re: Scoopity Doo Dog On TV

Hi Mick...
Great photo & article at the website you mention---and congrats on the TV News Coverage!!!
It is really nice to read that you also thought of us independent scoopers while you were in the spotlight. Mentioning the International Directory and showing Matthew's book might give the Poop Scooping business a boost and might even give some of us a new client or two (it is amazing how people network---a person in San Diego could have friends or relatives in Reno, NV; Charlotte, NC; and Baltimore, Kalamazoo, MI!)
Also, I have to thank you for NOT letting this brief moment in the spotlight turn your thoughts to franchising and taking over everyone else's business!!! Fresh air on the Message Board!!
May the poops be with you,
Tricia
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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 11-Sep-00 15:03:11

Re: Scoopity Doo Dog On TV

Congrats on the story.
Thank you about mentioning the pooper scooper website. What a great plug for all of us
Thanks again about thinking about all of your fellow scoopers!
Debbie
Go St. Louis Rams
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Message Date/Time:
Friday, 08-Sep-00 14:57:27

Matts' Book

Dear Matt,
Have finished digesting your book, and have decided to pursue the business. I'll be looking to start up soon in Western PA, along with four other partners. Does anyone have any advise on working with four other people...i.e.service area designation, group advertising? We're five nurses tired of the corporate hospital grind and are looking to work for ourselves. Thanks Cheryl..
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Message Date/Time:
Wednesday, 06-Sep-00 17:32:50

Disinfectants

I'm reading Matt's book he mentions Disinfectants But is very vague about what to use. My pup had parvo when I first got him 4 years ago the vet at that time said there is no chemical that will kill the virus. My question is what do you all use for a Disinfectant I mean something is better than nothing. Matt mentions several places to get the chemical but no mention of the name of the product. Please someone tell me what it is and where do you get it? Also where do you dispose of the waste at the end of the day? I have a few thoughts but would like to get more input. I haven't started the business yet am researching it right now. Thank You in advance Bill
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 07-Sep-00 07:09:08

Re: Disinfectants

The generic name of the product is Parvocidal Disinfectant. There are several brand names, including Parvocide. When you call either the sources I mention in the book or talk to other chemical or pet-product suppliers, ask for parvocidal disinfectant.
And yes, they certainly do kill parvovirus.
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 07-Sep-00 22:58:29

Re: Disinfectants

Personally, we use Ken-Care Disinfectant from KV Vet supply 800 423-8211. (kills k-9 parvo, newcastle, distemper virus and others) We also add Kennel Odor Eliminator to the disinfectant, Available from the same company. For the strong odor areas, we use Litter and Kennel Odor Control Powder. Same company.
We use the customer's trash can unless they prefer us to take it away or their regular trash pick up is several days away. Every day there are always nieghborhoods that are having their trash picked up and we'll simply use theirs! (our customer's) No complaints yet!
Tim
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 21-Sep-00 12:40:46

Re: Favorite Tool

Greatest tool

be polite, determination,creative immagination,a can do attitude, being flexable,& most of a genuine SMILE.
Brian Swartz
Best friend pet waste clean up service
Endwell N.Y.

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Message Date/Time:
Wednesday, 30-Aug-00 23:04:22

Favorite Tool

Ok everybody...what is your favorite tool (in detail)?

smoove

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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 31-Aug-00 20:25:35

Re: Favorite Tool

Matthew's book "How to be a Professional Pooper Scooper"

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Message Date/Time:
Friday, 01-Sep-00 17:10:15

Re: Favorite Tool

Last year someone (dont remember who) suggested a small shovel available at Bed Bath and Beyond. I bought 3 and deeply regret not buying more! They did not sell the same ones this year! It is incredibly lightweight (I have a back problem) and pretty durable. It has a wooden handle and a plastic shovel head (like a spade). Only one broke so far (my fiance did it hitting a soccer ball to the dogs). I love them and would love it if anyone knows how I can go about getting more. I have also heard that some people use a rake from Wal-mart. I have not seen it. Dont know if they only sell them seasonally. If you hear of anything that works wonders, let us all know.
Take care,
Ashlee
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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 05-Sep-00 18:28:02

Re: Re: Favorite Tool

Hi Ashlee,
I mentioned how awesome the shovels are last year. You're right they are seasonal as I bought 6 more this past April. The store puts 'em away in late July to bring in Fall and school time.
I haven't seen them anywhere else but would certainly expect to.
I've only had 2 of them brake - the RULE!
I'll never use the "True..." metal one from Walmart again!
Red

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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 07-Sep-00 22:31:57

Re: Favorite Tool

We use the good old fashion, sturdy, true temper square blade shovel and stainles steel paddles that I make personally. It works great for cement and grass. We can just "one hand" the piles onto the shovel and toss it in the 5 gal. plastic lined buckets. For those stubborn piles, the paddle cuts through the grass, dirt, weeds and anything else that gets in the way. ('Cause we all know that the dogs don't always eat properly!) I've offered "lightweight" tools but my employees prefer the steel.
Tim
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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 29-Aug-00 19:34:00

matt's book and tricia's marketing tricks

I keep reading about matt's book and tricia's free cheap marketing book, but haven't seen a way to get them. Could you please send information by means of e-mail. I rarely get to use the computer this much to get to a site, i usually just check the email and continue on with a busy home daycare.
vmax@ou.edu

I am just looking into all of this for a parttime on the side kind of thing. Need a little extra income and any advice is so greatly appreciated.
thank you, tonya
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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 31-Aug-00 12:47:34

Re: matt's book and tricia's marketing tricks

How DID you get to this message board without seeing Matthew's website which is all about his book?!?! As far as getting my materials, just scroll down to my response to "TAXES" on August 16, 2000 which states how to get a copy of the handout: "Cheap Marketing Tricks: A-Z."

However, if you don't even have time to research the possibilities of this business, you certainly don't have time to run this business---even part-time. My suggestion would be for you to focus on what you already have going---a busy home daycare. Raise your rates, offer more services, take in more children...or check out those type of websites that might offer suggestions for increasing your income. Unless you are trying to phase that business out, it makes sense to run one business at a time and do it very well. For example, my husband, a Customer Service Specialist for builders, did the finishing work on a $Million dollar new home for a gal who started out with a home daycare and eventually expanded into building several daycare/pre-schools near all the major home developments in this area!

Tricia

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Message Date/Time:
Thursday, 31-Aug-00 16:04:13

Re: matt's book and tricia's marketing tricks

Hi Tonya,

It is very easy to get my book, "The Professional Pooper-Scooper." You can order online, using PayPal, by clicking on the "Buy it Now" button near the top of the homepage at www.pooper-scooper.com. Or you can send your check or money order for $31.95 (postage is included at no extra charge for orders inside the USA), payable to Matthew Osborn, to:

Matthew Osborn
3731 East Broad Street, #114
Columbus, OH 43213

To get Tricia's list, which I personally think is quite excellent, just a $.33 stamped, self-addressed envelope (or $.55 stamped self-addressed envelope if you would like some copies of some of my marketing materials) If you have a business card and/or brochure already, please include one (for her collection)

Tricia T. Timmons
TAIL END POOPER SCOOPERS
P.O. Box 51554
Sparks, NV 89435-1554

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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 28-Aug-00 13:28:56

Who was that and what happened to him ?

I remember back in the spring of 99 there was someone on this board who was going to franchise his business. He was quite vocal about how well he was going to do. I remember no one really appreciated this persons view.

Who was he? Is he still around ? Has he been sucessfull?

Happy scooping

Barry
Doggie Poo Pick-up (CT)
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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 29-Aug-00 23:53:25

Re: Who was that and what happened to him ?

Yes Barry, I am still around. Just got back from Canada, where we are putting in a few Major Doody territories. Thanks for wondering where I went! It's nice to hear fellow scoopers asking about others in this industry.

Jack Keller
"The Major"


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Message Date/Time:
Wednesday, 30-Aug-00 15:56:54

Re: Who was that and what happened to him ?

No Major Doody this is not you.... Mathew how can you get the old archives ?

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Message Date/Time:
Wednesday, 30-Aug-00 16:12:06

Re: Who was that and what happened to him ?

I found what I was referring to under archive 22. The topic concerned Poop Busters Inc out of Chicago. Jan 7 of 99
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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 28-Aug-00 04:06:18

Some thoughts on finding customers

Has anyone tried working with lawn care services?
Maybe pay them a finders fee for every customer that they recommend. Of course this might backfire and prompt them to adding this as a part of their own lawn care business instead. Do any lawn care companies provide pooper service? How about the idea of being a sub contractor to lawn care businesses, at least to get started?

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Message Date/Time:
Monday, 28-Aug-00 19:29:30

Re: Some thoughts on finding customers

Bob: My husband-to-be is a landscaper and my business actually got started following the discussion of a bunch of landscapers in a supply store. THey were complaining about the poo and how it ruins their machines and gets all over everything. He came home and told me about it, I went on the internet and next thing you know, here I am. I have mailed to his "most needy" customers and have gotten a couple as regular customers. Others I have gotten for spring clean ups. The truth is, they cant afford to pay their guys to pick up poo-it is not time efficient for them. We breexe in, get rid of it and then they can mow. It works for us because I know what days he goes to which lawns and I always make sure they are freshly scooped for him. Beware who you trust though-the economy is bound to drop off and there will be lots of landscapers looking for extra work. See if you can work out a dual referral thing. For example, if you notice a lawn getting cut on Monday is getting scooped on Tuesday, you could refer them to "X Company" who would mow on Monday afternoons after you scoop. Make sure you check the quality of their work first. I would not bother with the subcontracting thing. Too much hassle and hard to get your $.
best of luck-
Ashlee
Doggie Doo Not!

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Message Date/Time:
Saturday, 26-Aug-00 22:01:29

Software

Any recomendations on a type of busineess software? I just got THE book yesterday and am in the info gathering stage.

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Message Date/Time:
Tuesday, 29-Aug-00 23:51:58

Re: Software

Hi Bob! We use Quick Books program.....I like its simple style of management.
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