A father of four in the United Kingdom has turned an unusual idea into a profitable side business by offering professional dog waste removal services — earning an estimated more than $32,000 annually from the venture.
Kyle Newby, a 39-year-old builder from Derbyshire, launched his dog waste removal service, Pet Poo Pick, earlier this year after noticing the popularity of similar businesses in the United States.
Speaking to South West News Service, Newby said he was inspired after seeing dog waste pickup services frequently advertised on social media. Believing the concept had untapped potential in the UK, he decided to test the market locally by posting a simple advertisement on Facebook.
“The response was overwhelming,” Newby said. “We were genuinely surprised at how quickly customers signed up.”
The business now serves around 35 regular clients, with Newby visiting approximately 15 properties midweek and another 20 on weekends. Customers pay an initial fee of around $40 for the first visit, followed by weekly charges of about $20, depending on frequency and property size.
Based on current demand, Newby estimates he earns roughly $2,600 to $2,700 per week, working approximately 12 hours spread across several days. He says the hourly earnings often exceed what he makes during long shifts in construction work.
Each job typically takes 10 to 15 minutes per garden, during which dog waste is collected using professional scoopers and sealed bags. Afterward, the area is disinfected to ensure hygiene standards are maintained. Newby also travels significant distances to responsibly dispose of the waste.
While some critics have dismissed the service as unnecessary, Newby says a large portion of his clients rely on Pet Poo Pick due to age, injury, or mobility limitations.
“Many of my customers simply can’t bend down or move easily,” he explained. “We’re not replacing responsibility — we’re helping people who physically can’t do it themselves.”
One such customer, Peter Fisk, said he began using the service after breaking his leg. “With my condition, I’ll need help for months,” Fisk said. “The job is done properly every time. It’s a great service.”
In addition to waste removal, Newby has expanded offerings to include basic lawn care for customers who need extra assistance.
Although the venture currently operates as a side business, Newby says he hopes to grow it into a full-time operation, citing steady demand and strong customer retention.
