From Firehouse to Front Yard: Dylan Brees on Pet Waste, Public Service, and Purpose

Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dylan Brees—firefighter, pet care professional, and founder of The Doody Crew. Together, they explore how Dylan turned his frontline experiences in emergency response into a grassroots business dedicated to pet waste removal, yard sanitation, and compassionate care for animals and their people.

Dylan shares how calls as a firefighter—often to homes where elderly or disabled residents struggled to manage pet responsibilities—sparked a bigger mission. What began with poop scooping evolved into a multi-service company helping clients reclaim their yards and protect their pets’ health with dignity and professionalism.

From navigating yards buried in months of frozen waste to supporting dog parks, HOAs, and rescue homes, Dylan walks us through the realities, challenges, and rewards of running a business built on one simple idea: Everyone deserves a clean and healthy outdoor space—even if they can't maintain it themselves.

Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:

When Public Service Inspires Private Solutions:

Dylan reflects on the link between his EMS work and the emotional reality of pet care in underserved communities—and how that became the seed for The Doody Crew.

The Dirty Truth About Pet Ownership:

From brown grass patches to geese infestations, Dylan shares behind-the-scenes stories and practical tips from the pet waste trenches.

How Sanitation Can Support Training:

Dylan explains how regular yard sanitizing not only improves hygiene but can subtly help train dogs to eliminate in consistent spots.

Litter Box Grab-and-Go Service:

Learn about The Doody Crew’s convenient system for cat owners—picking up, cleaning, sanitizing, and delivering fresh litter right to your doorstep.

Geese, Grass, and Grit:

Dylan recounts his most demanding job ever—five 55-gallon buckets of waste, months of buildup, and three weeks of work—and why geese are the industry's worst-kept secret.

Pet Health Clues in Poop:

While not a diagnostic service, Dylan discusses how his team flags potential concerns like blood in stool or signs of illness that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Key Takeaways:

✅ A firefighter’s perspective can reveal surprising community needs

✅ Pet waste management is essential for health—not just cleanliness

✅ Yard sanitation helps both pets and people live better

✅ Convenience services can make a big difference for seniors and busy families

✅ Even unconventional businesses can have powerful impact

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the “less glamorous” side of pet care—or wondered how someone could turn sanitation into service—this episode offers humor, heart, and a dose of real-world wisdom from the front lines of both firefighting and backyard cleanup.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Dylan Brees:

• Website: https://www.thedoodycrew.com/
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dylan-brees-7b927830a
• Phone: [phone]
• Instagram: @thedoddycrew
• Email: [email protected]

Know someone with a full yard and a full schedule?

Share this episode with pet parents, property managers, or anyone who could use a little help keeping it clean—and a lot of inspiration from a firefighter who saw a need and got to work.