The Scoop
Pooper scooper tips, puppy raising, lawn care, and more from the Poo Patrol crew. Updated regularly.
Latest · July 7, 2026
New From Poo Patrol: Yard Deodorizing Service
Scooping removes the piles. Our new yard deodorizing service removes the smell. Pet-safe odor treatment for lawns, patios, dog runs, and turf across Iowa.
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July 6, 2026
Dog Poop and Kids: The Health Risks Every Parent Should Know
Kids play where dogs go. The real health risks dog poop poses to children, why summer is peak exposure season, and how to keep your backyard kid-safe.
June 10, 2026
The Backyard BBQ Prep Checklist for Dog Owners
Hosting a summer cookout with a dog in the house? A 30-minute yard prep checklist plus the grill-season foods your dog needs to stay away from.
May 13, 2026
Stop Mowing Over Dog Poop (Your Mower, Lawn, and Shoes Will Thank You)
Mowing over dog waste spreads bacteria across the lawn, gunks up your mower, and makes yard problems worse. Why scooping before mowing matters.
April 15, 2026
The New Puppy Backyard Survival Guide
Spring puppy season is here. How to set up your yard for potty training success, puppy-proof the fence line, and keep the lawn alive through the chaos.
March 11, 2026
Snowmelt Season: Why March Is the Most Important Month to Scoop
When Iowa snow melts, months of dog waste thaws with it. Parasites, runoff, and lawn damage peak in March. Here's why the first scoop of spring can't wait.
February 11, 2026
How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs? An Iowa Winter Guide
Some dogs love a polar vortex, others shiver at 40 degrees. Temperature guidelines by breed and size, frostbite warning signs, and winter potty tips.
January 14, 2026
New Year, Cleaner Yard: Building a Dog Waste Routine That Sticks
Most yard resolutions die by February. How to build a dog waste routine that actually survives the year, whether you DIY or put it on autopilot.
December 10, 2025
The Holiday Hosting Yard Checklist for Dog Owners
Guests coming for the holidays? A quick checklist to get a dog household company-ready, from the backyard to the front walk, without December stress.
November 12, 2025
Winterizing Your Yard (and Your Dog Routine) Before the First Iowa Snow
A November checklist for Iowa dog owners: final lawn tasks, cold-weather gear checks, and setting up a scooping routine that survives the freeze.
October 15, 2025
Hiding in the Leaves: Why Missed Piles Multiply in October
Falling leaves hide dog poop better than snow does. Why October yards get away from Iowa dog owners and how to stay ahead of the leaf-covered backlog.
September 10, 2025
Fall Lawn Care for Dog Owners: Overseeding, Leaves, and the Last Mow
September is the best month to repair a dog-worn lawn in Iowa. An overseeding and cleanup plan built for yards with dogs in them.
August 12, 2025
Too Busy to Scoop? Surviving Back-to-School Season With Dogs
When school starts, the yard chores slip. How Eastern Iowa families keep the backyard clean and the dog happy through the busiest season of the year.
July 15, 2025
Why Your Backyard Smells Worse in July (and How to Fix It by the Weekend)
Summer heat turns missed dog poop into a backyard odor factory. Where the smell actually comes from and a weekend plan to fix it for good.
June 17, 2025
Summer Heat Safety for Dogs: An Eastern Iowa Guide
Iowa summers are no joke for dogs. How to spot overheating, when pavement is too hot for paws, and how to set up a backyard that stays safe in July heat.
May 13, 2025
How to Fix Dog Spots in Your Lawn (and Keep Them From Coming Back)
Brown circles, bare patches, and burned grass: a practical repair plan for dog-damaged lawns in Eastern Iowa, plus how to prevent new spots.
April 16, 2025
Mud Season: Protecting Paws, Floors, and Lawns During a Rainy Iowa Spring
April rain turns Iowa dog yards into mud pits. Practical ways to protect your grass, your dog's paws, and your floors until the lawn firms up.
March 14, 2025
The Spring Thaw Survival Guide for Iowa Dog Owners
Snow melting in Eastern Iowa? Here's a step-by-step plan for tackling a winter's worth of dog waste, matted grass, and muddy paws without losing your weekend.
February 12, 2025
Does Dog Poop Really Disappear in Winter? The Frozen Truth
Snow hides dog poop, but it doesn't make it go away. Here's what really happens to dog waste under an Iowa snowpack and why winter scooping matters.
January 29, 2025
The Spring Revival: Why Cleaning Up Dog Waste Post-Winter is Crucial for Your Lawn
As the snow melts away and the first signs of spring emerge in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Waterloo, it's time for the residents of Eastern Iowa to turn their attention to their yards. Winter might have hidden the less...
October 28, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Kitty Litter Swap Out Service
The Ultimate Guide to Poo Patrol's Kitty Litter Swap Out Service: Convenience, Cleanliness, and Peace of Mind In our busy lives, finding the time and energy to keep up with all household chores can feel like a constant...
September 15, 2024
Training 101: Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know
A Beginner’s Guide to Dog Training Dog training is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a pet owner. Not only does it foster a strong bond between you and your dog, but it also ensures your dog’s safety, builds...
September 11, 2024
Announcing an Inspiring Partnership: Poo Patrol & Deafinitely Dogs Unite for Veterans
Announcing an Inspiring Partnership: Poo Patrol & Deafinitely Dogs Unite for Veterans At Poo Patrol, we believe in giving back to the community, and we're thrilled to announce a heartwarming new partnership with...
June 7, 2024
Unleash the Power of Clean: The Pro Pet Hair Tool Kit from Lily Brush for Detailing Vehicles
As pet owners, we cherish the companionship and joy our furry friends bring into our lives. However, one of the most persistent challenges we face is dealing with the relentless accumulation of pet hair, especially in...
May 28, 2024
The Benefits of Doggy Daycare: Why It's Good for Your Dog
Doggy daycare facilities have become increasingly popular as more pet owners recognize the numerous benefits these establishments offer for their beloved furry friends. In today's fast-paced world, where many people...
May 27, 2024
What Your Dog’s Poop Can Tell You About Your Dog
Can orange dog poop tell you something about your dog's health? Taking care of a dog involves more than just feeding, walking, and playing fetch. As a responsible dog owner, one of the most important aspects of your...
May 27, 2024
Understanding Soft Stool in Dogs: "Why is my dog pooping a lot and it's soft?"
Understanding Soft Stool in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide by Poo Patrol Understanding Soft Stool in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide by Poo Patrol As dog owners, we all love our furry friends and want to ensure they are...
May 25, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Preventing Dog Pee from Killing Your Grass
Tired of dog pee killing your grass? Maintaining a lush, green lawn is a source of pride for many homeowners. However, if you have a dog, you might find yourself battling unsightly brown or yellow patches where your...
May 23, 2024
The Comprehensive Guide to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop
Dog ownership brings endless joy, companionship, and laughter, but it also comes with its share of challenges. One of the most perplexing and unpleasant behaviors to try and control is to stop your dog from eating poop,...
May 20, 2024
Why Hiring a Dog Pooper Scooper Service is a Good Idea
Pet ownership comes with a host of responsibilities, from feeding and grooming to ensuring regular veterinary care. However, one less glamorous task often gets overlooked - cleaning up after your dog . While picking up...
May 17, 2024
Poo Patrol: A Lifeline for Seniors with Mobility Issues
As our loved ones age, the challenges they face in maintaining independence become more pronounced. One of the lesser-discussed, yet significant, issues is pet care. For seniors with mobility issues, the routine task of...
May 15, 2024
The Scoop on Dog Poop: Is Dog Waste Bad For Your Yard?
Dog owners often revel in the joy of having a furry companion, but with that joy comes responsibility - including cleaning up after your pet. While many might see dog poop as an inconvenience, its presence in your yard...
May 15, 2024
How To Train Your Puppy To Sit
Training your puppy to sit is one of the foundational commands that sets the stage for further obedience training and creates a well-behaved canine companion. Teaching your puppy to sit not only fosters better...
May 14, 2024
A Guide to Introducing Your Dog to Chickens
Bringing together dogs and chickens in a harmonious environment may seem like a challenge, but with patience, understanding, and proper training, it’s entirely achievable. Dogs, with their natural predatory instincts,...
May 13, 2024
Why You Should Hire Poo Patrol in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City
Pet ownership brings boundless joy and companionship into our lives, but it also comes with responsibilities , including the not-so-fun task of cleaning up after our furry friends. While many pet owners diligently scoop...
May 11, 2024
Safeguarding Your Furry Friends: Essential Tips for Keeping Dogs Safe Around Backyard Pools
Backyard pools are synonymous with relaxation and fun, providing a refreshing oasis during hot summer days. However, as much joy as pools bring to our lives, they also pose potential hazards, especially for our furry...
May 6, 2024
The Scoop on Scooping: Why Picking Up Dog Waste Matters
Introduction: As any dog owner knows, our furry companions bring boundless joy into our lives. They greet us with wagging tails, provide companionship, and often become cherished members of the family. But along with...
April 29, 2024
How To Crate Train Your Puppy
Crate training is one of the most effective ways to teach your dog good habits and ensure they feel safe and secure while you're away from home . It also helps prevent accidents and destructive behavior. However, crate...
April 20, 2024
Dogs Can Strengthen Your Kid's Immune System
Dogs are often referred to as "man's best friend," but did you know that they can also benefit children's health in many ways? It has been widely observed that dogs help children develop stronger immune systems. While...
April 5, 2024
What About Bully Sticks?
When it comes to finding treats for our furry friends , there are many options available. One such option that has gained popularity over the years is bully sticks. Bully sticks are natural, high-protein treats made...
March 15, 2024
Healthy Dog, Healthy You
Dogs have long been regarded as man's best friend, and for good reason. Owning a dog can bring joy, companionship, and a sense of responsibility into your life. But did you know that owning a dog can also have...
March 1, 2024
Introducing Poo Patrol: Dog Waste Removal Service
Welcome, dog lovers of Cedar Rapids and Iowa City ! We are thrilled to announce the launch of Poo Patrol, your premier dog waste removal service dedicated to keeping your yards clean and your lives hassle-free. As avid...
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