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DOG OWNERS: Love your dog -- hate poop?
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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.
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Page Eighty-Three
floydP.E.T.S.wrs
flyers
Tue Dec 18 19:58:28 2001
I was wondering what style and what color flyer do you use what kind of paper ect. ? thanks in advance for your input. oh yeah, 1 month til vegas baby!!!
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Pooch Pal
flyers
Wed Dec 19 11:45:50 2001
We usually buy reams of bright colored paper that will stand out on bulletin boards or in a pile of someone's junk papers.
Then we have them printed at Office Depot which gives good discounts on printing over 100 copies of the same original.
When you supply the paper and get the volume rate, it brings the price down considerably and isn't much more than going with white. Paper runs us about a penny per plus whatever the printin is. At 1000, I thinks it's about 3 cents. We think the extra visibility is worth the small price increase.
Judy
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pets
flyers
Wed Dec 19 13:40:05 2001
what color works best for you?
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Pooch Pal
goldenrod, bright orange EOM
Fri Dec 21 12:07:41 2001
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pets wrs floyd
thanks for the colors eom
Fri Dec 21 16:23:59 2001
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Red
Re: flyers
Wed Dec 19 09:52:20 2001
The cheapest white paper I can find.
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pets
flyers
Wed Dec 19 13:41:09 2001
niiiiiccce:)))
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Florence
Insurance time "again"
Wed Dec 19 02:51:50 2001
OK OK, so I hav'nt been here in a long time. Sorry! It's once again time for insurance!! Many of you were probably here last year when I agonized over (celebrated) my $500.00 premium. Well, I have a new carrier. State Farm.
Jay Wages - 209-267-5405
I am not sure if they offer coverage outside California, but for you folks inside the state my premium for this year was $180.00 and it covers my computer. Same $1,000,000 liability coverage. Call him. No kickback yet, but am hopeful if some of you folks call him!!
Hope you all have a peaceful holiday and prosper in the coming year.
----------------------------
Mick
Insurance
Wed Dec 19 15:07:49 2001
Florence,
Thanks for the info. I am in California too and if I can get coverage that cheap I will be a very happy scooper. I have been paying over $500 per year and have been told the same as Poop Scoop King that there is a minimum for coverage and that was about $500. Thanks!
Scoopity Doo Dog
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Shanti,CT
Insurance
Wed Dec 19 12:56:26 2001
Hello Florence,
I called Jay today and unfortunately, he does not insure outside of CA. Florence what is your company name as that will help Jay pull the file out and will have a better understanding of the policy.
Thanks
Shanti
Happy Scoopers
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Pooch Pal
THANKS
Wed Dec 19 11:47:50 2001
Thanks for passing on the great lead. Maybe if he can't do outside of CA, he can refer to a fellow agent.
Judy
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PoopScoopKing
I've always been told
Wed Dec 19 04:24:43 2001
That for whatever reason, there is a $500 minumum premium on this type of general liability policy.
PSK
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Pooch Pal
Re: I've always been told
Wed Dec 19 11:49:42 2001
Gene,
If you go through the petsitter's org., their premium is much less than $500. Of course your outlay comes to just about that b/c you have to join their organization, but the policy itself is quite a bit under 500. Where have you heard that rule?
Judy
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the bomb squad
pet sitters insurance
Wed Dec 19 12:44:24 2001
I joined Pet Sitters Associates LLC and for $207 received membership and one year of liability insurance for bodily injury or property damage. There is no deductible. The policy reads like it would cover scooping incidents as well: "each occurrence for loss of pets in your care, custody or control" "loss to personal property of your customers in your care, custody or control" etc.
Insurance packages are something we will be working to get specifically for scoopers in the national organization, but pet sitters is a good way to go until that happens.
~Melinda
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Becky's Pet Sitting
PSA insurance
Wed Dec 19 13:35:29 2001
I have the same insurance and they will not cover you for poop scooping unless it is a pet sitting client. Call them and they will gladly talk to you about it.
--------------------------------
Pooch Pal
Coverage
Wed Dec 19 18:13:19 2001
I emailed the insurance company and explained that although
we didi pet sitting, our primary business was scooping and asked if their insurance policy would cover us. Tha answer I got was yes, it would.
Judy
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doggie dung detail
re: insurance
Wed Dec 19 20:05:52 2001
whats the insurance companies name?
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Pete
Mailing postcards
Wed Dec 19 08:23:02 2001
Mailing of postcards
I got a request for this info and thought I'd pass it along to everyone.
Where do you get the addresses?
I send postcards to former customers AND to people in selected areas from an address list of dog license purchases. I have also collected addresses with "Free Information" drop boxes at pet related events.
I keep these addresses in a database so that I can sort by street name, number (ex. Main Street AND house number is less than 700) of zip. If I get an address without a zip code, my local white pages has a zip code and street guide in the front where I can look them up.
Where do you get the postcards?
You can buy them made to order. Check the Yellow Pages for printers, search the web, ask around. You can blank cards with postgage from the USPS.
Personally, I prefer to make my own. I don't have to buy thousands at a time or wait for shipping. I get 4 cards 4"X5.5" from an 8/5X11 page of card stock. I really love the printer I use (no cost for three years except for ink). If you print 1000 pages a month or more, call me and I'll forward info about the program. (Yes, I get $50 worth of ink if you qualify and sign up)
What kind of response rate do you get?
Low. I rarely send more than a couple of hundred a month. Although people don't often mention the cards when they sign up, the areas that I market to show growth over time. The best thing about direct mail is that I send to exactly the house I want. The next best thing is that pretty or humorous cards sometimes get passed along or simply get discussed with others folks.
Targeted direct mail can be a cost effective marketing tool. It isn't a cure all. If you do it well, it can bring solid long term results. If you're looking for a quick fix, it can be a disappointing way to drop a few hundred dollars. I suggest that you consider it as _part_ of your overall marketing strategy. Good customer relations with a referral bonus is better. Well marked clean trucks are better.
Disclaimer - I have no formal marketing training. I'm just a guy who scoops poop for a living. What makes my ideas any better than yours? On the other hand, PET BUTLER has served the community since 1988 and once again, the net profit is higher than last year. While today's problems may be a pain in the butt, the big picture looks pretty good.
------------------------
Pete
Printer clarification
Thu Dec 20 08:32:58 2001
The printer I was talking about is a desktop. I like to do it myself, and the ability to print as few as 4 doublesided cards at a time is VERY handy. With mailmerge, I never need labels.
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Erin, Dirty Work
How much color?
Thu Dec 20 16:57:41 2001
How much color art is on your post card?
We tried printing out card that were 50/50 color & black & white. Between paper jams, slowing up the computer, etc etc, it was a real pain in the rear!
Of course, I had found the perfect website selling color postcards with a great scooping picture - but my computer crashed, I lost all my bookmarks and have YET to find that damned site!!!! :)
--------------------------------
yuckos
postcards from printer
Wed Dec 19 10:34:21 2001
I had postcards made from my printer for : 1000 for $78 both side printed one color ink any color paper i wanted
--------------------------
Tim
Re: postcards from printer
Fri Dec 21 20:56:13 2001
If you shop around, you can get postcards printed on one side in full color, the other side one color, fairly inexpensive. I too, print 4 per page, (all different) and it only costs $268.00 for 5000! (on glossy card stock) Just letting you know.
Tim
Scoop Masters
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PoopScoopKing
printing
Wed Dec 19 17:54:37 2001
Did that price include the actual card itself Debbie?
Gene
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yucko debbie
postcards included
Wed Dec 19 20:39:21 2001
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--------------------
Pete
Litter box questions & an answer
Wed Dec 19 08:34:22 2001
First the answer. I used plastic "sweater storage" boxes for a special project. There were many cats, so the large size 24"X18" wasn't a problem. I don't recall what the cost was. Try Target, Walmart, etc.
What I'm really looking for is a low cost disposable filled litter box in wholesale quantities but NOT 10,000 at a time.
Any suggestions?
-------------------------
-------------------------
Chris...pooper scoopers dlx
excited!
Wed Dec 19 15:17:50 2001
Hi everyone...ok so I know I got started in this venture a few months ago but with the family emergencies i had the past few months nothing came of it..However...I did get an ad in the phone book and as of today have 5 clents from just this week...I am so excited to finally start doing something! I did my first job yesterday...and at first she only wanted a one time visit..but after I finished, she liked what i did..what with our rain an all that she asked me how much for a weekly visit..and then signed up..anyway..i just had to share..hope you all are well and have a super holiday season! by the way..whats this about vegas? when and where? thanks...chris
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Ms. Poop-Scooper
I remember that feeling
Thu Dec 20 06:24:54 2001
Hi, My name is Gwen. I just started my third year of business. But I still remember the excited feeling of getting that first few Jobs. I was great. I still get excited to get new customers.
I am also getting calls that start out as just one time clean-up due to the rain and a few then sign up as regulars. Good going and good luck. Gwen
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NIMBY
Chris, Give me a call....
Thu Dec 20 00:17:34 2001
I would still like you to do that client we had discussed.. I am glad to hear that you have gotten past your family difficulties. I am also full of Vegas info..
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DoggieMaid--Shari
Lobby dustpans/bags
Wed Dec 19 22:01:34 2001
Just have started my removal service here in Des Moines, Iowa! Thanks for all the info on the board. I dislike the heavy shovel that Matt refers to--am currently contacting friends in beach towns to look for those lighter ones you all speak of. My other question is that it seems
as I scoop into dustpan, the bag gets cut up on the edge of the pan--anyone out there following what I'm saying? It is no big deal, unless the slit is large--a bit of waste falls to ground and I immediately put another bag around the first. Any tips to avoid this--or is it just something that happens!? Does anyone put in 2 bags to begin with? Or maybe my bags are to thin? Appreciate any input. Happy scoopin'! Addy
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NIMBY
Re: Lobby dustpans/bags
Thu Dec 20 00:44:35 2001
Hello! I had that same problem...until I changed my methods. I first of all, never used a shovel.. things are wet here so a small light wieght garden rake works best for me. I stopped using the lobby dust pans (which hold about one gallon) and switched to a large blue pan (i will add the pic to scooperspics asap) which I do not line at all with bags.. it has an open top and holds about 3 gallons. In my truck I have a large rectangle shaped rubbermade container.. lined with 33 gallonn bags ( I generally can put 3 yards worth of waste in each of these bags) I have another rectangular rubbermaid container that holds my kennel disinfectant. After each yard, I just dump my pan into the bag then, place the "dust pan into the other container for disinfecting. It has saved me lots of time (not having to mess with bags in the yard, tears in bags) and disinfecting. I no longer have to spray everything down..It soaks instead. I do still carry my sprayer.. and spay off my boots.. but I just dunk my rake. Also, I use A real kennel disinfectant so that I can do a monthly disinfecting for people with cement, or dirt floored kennels. This really helps the urine smell in those areas. I am sorry I am so wordy.. But I thought this might be information you would be interested in. Laura
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Doggie Maid--Shari
Bags vs. none
Thu Dec 20 07:59:39 2001
Interesting idea. Does the 3 gallon weight of the blue pan get awkward lugging around? I bet your soaking solution looks like "shit"(HA HA)after all those soakings! Can I say that? :) I use an animal quarters/tools detergent and deodorant I aquired from New England Serum. It is called LEMON-256. For total disinfection, you are supposed to leave on for 10 minutes-no rinsing. I have 2 dustpans/shovels in case my drive time is less than that between stops. I like to do everything right, especially since I will be getting some press soon for donating free cleanups for those who adopt pets from the local shelter. Thanks for your help!
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NIMBY
Re: Bags vs. none
Thu Dec 20 23:29:32 2001
I actually carry 3 dustpans with me in case one breaks, I still have the two soaking. It takes about 4 fulltime days to make the disinfectant look like $#!+. But hey, there is absolutely no smells! I use the disinfectant on the kennels for an extra fee... It really does make a HUGE differance in the smell in the yards!
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Doggie Maid
Disinfectant
Fri Dec 21 07:31:11 2001
Where do you live? I guess I could scan the directory to find out. Here in the Midwest, it gets COLD and the "solution in the container for soaking" method might not work out so well in the winter, although out temps have been way above normal. It was 50 yesterday and we have had zero snow so far! Of course, temps are forecasted to PLUNGE to the single digits with fierce winds this weekend! FUN, FUN! With the spray method, I take a paper towel and wipe the little residue off my shovel so it appears to be clean, drop the towel in the bag and then spray. My tools look and smell good enough to eat off of! :) I can store my spray in the front cab with me to prevent freezing. Your soaking method might work well for me this spring. Thanks for the advice NIMBY! Shari
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NIMBY
Re: Disinfectant
Fri Dec 21 21:44:02 2001
Shari, You are very welcome for the advise. I live in the Seattle area of Washington. at night our temps are in the 20's now, we have had our first snow...my stuff did not freeze...maybe it is like anti-freeze...LOL. Good luck with whatever method you choose! By the way, I also have a scrubber brush in case of stuck-yuck! (long handle preferred~!)
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minesweepers
cleaning tools
Fri Dec 21 13:37:18 2001
the soaking method would never work for me. N.Y. stop and go would mean a clean truck bed and dirty tools,someone said they wipe their tools off with a paper towel,how about using a small b.b.q brush after spraying off the big stuff
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nimby
Re: cleaning tools
Fri Dec 21 21:39:54 2001
Seattle has TERRIBLE traffic...last we heard our traffic was rated #1 for worst. I use a large airduct size ziptie to hold the rectangular rubbermaid bucket to the truck. It has never tipped over.
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Mark
Re: Lobby dustpans/bags
Wed Dec 19 23:44:44 2001
Shari,
I found I tear more bags when my shovel is sharp. Take a file or grinder and round it over a bit and then be careful not to scrape much concrete. Also, lighten up on the shovel just before you hit the dust pan.
I use the 13 gallon drawstring bags from Costco. When its windy, I use the drawstring to secure the back side to the handle. The plastic is thicker on those bags than most.
I still tear some, but try not to because it gets gross.
Good luck
Mark
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Red
Re: Lobby dustpans/bags
Wed Dec 19 22:44:07 2001
Hi DMS - Welcome!
I feel your pain - DITTO to the bag ripping saga.
-Red
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Erin, Dirty Work
Re: Lobby dustpans/bags
Thu Dec 20 16:50:05 2001
Hey gang -
Neither me nor my co-workers have any sort of bag-tearing problem. I don't know if we're just lucky or what :)
We don't scrap or pull the waste all the way from the grass into the pan. Rather, we wedge our tool sort of "under" the waste and essentially "pop" it into the pan which is an inch or so away. It even works with runny stools and help keeps it intact.
As far as the bags go - we use the kitchen bags from Target (although I'd love to get something cheaper!!)
Erin
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Pooch Pal
Bags
Thu Dec 20 22:24:26 2001
We haven't had any tearing problems yet either. We found
the best deal locally on bags is at Sam's Club. I think
(I'd have to check to be sure) we're paying about 4.5 cents
per bag. These bags come in a roll but are separate so you don't mess with tearing them off.
Also, if you use rubber bands to secure bags around handle,
the thick kind that you get on broccoli work well. Even with a pan full of, the back of the bag doesn't come out from under.
Judy
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minesweepers
re;bags and pans and shovels, oh my!!!
Thu Dec 20 21:03:33 2001
hey gang i hope all have finished x-mas shopping and have a great holiday.As far as ripping bags the "pop" method seems to work best for not ripping them although it does happen the rip is usually up high enough on the bag not to matter.as far as shovels (i know i've said this before but after almost a year i'm still on the same shovel with no sign of failure.it's made by corona and it has a twist lock extendable handle that goes from about 18" to almost 3' the head is all steel and is the size of a hand trowel.ten bucks in home depot(probably best to find in the spring in garden section)it's the only tool i use except for those stupid "adjustable spread" fan rake for a clean-up(it's junk)also cheaper bags are really not possible target bags are almost unfigurable as far as cost goes...180 for $8.99= 0.0499444 .is that really alot when you figure even if you use a bag for each pile it still don't add up to 50 cents
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Erin, Dirty Work
Re: re;bags and pans and shovels, oh my!!!
Fri Dec 21 15:56:10 2001
You are right about the expense of Target bags, but we go thru them at such a rate (just with the apartment complexes alone we service) that shelling out $100-$150 at a time for bags makes it seem like a lot :) Especially when so many of our clients are slow to pay!
Happy Holidays,
Erin
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PoopScoopking
I feel your pain Erin
Sat Dec 22 05:29:09 2001
On both the $100's for bags and the slow payers!
PSK
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minesweepers
bags
Fri Dec 21 21:30:49 2001
yes, but how much are those condos finally paying you
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Doggie Maid
RED--Thanks
Wed Dec 19 23:00:45 2001
That was fast! Glad to know that a pro like you has the same trouble--maybe thought it was my own stupidity! Checked out your pic on Scooperspics. Already have emails out to beachtown friends to round me up some similar shovels--I hate the heavy one I have! Went networking to vets, groommers, boarders Monday. What a hoot to drive around with my sign on the back window of my bright red S-10 pickup, a paw Xmas stocking hanging from the passenger side window! I spent the day networking at vets, groomers, boarders, etc--they were all very excited. Contacted our local Rescue shelter to offer free one time deals to anyone who adopts a pet. Got my first call today! I have lots of experience stepping in and around crap--I have been a mailcarrier for over 18 years...I have plans, though, not to retire from there...I tell everyone that I am going to scoop my way out of the Post Office! Oh how they laugh!! Did you know that Matt O. was a former postal worker as well? Take care, Shari
-------------------------------