In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Trina Hazzah—integrative veterinarian, cannabis educator, and founder of Green Nile and the Veterinary Cannabis Society. Together, they unpack the evolving science, stigma, and incredible healing potential of cannabis in animal care.

Dr. Trina shares how her pivot from conventional veterinary oncology led her into the world of plant medicine, where she now helps pets—and their people—navigate cannabis safely and effectively. From formulating Rooted Owl’s CBD oil to advocating for national policy change, Dr. Trina’s mission is rooted in science, compassion, and responsible education.

Through real stories of anxious dogs transformed, chihuahuas finding peace, and rescues finally adopted, this episode makes one thing clear: cannabis, when used wisely, can be a powerful bridge to healing.

Why You Shouldn’t Just Walk Into a Dispensary:

Dr. Trina explains why human-grade cannabis products can be dangerous for pets—and why bartenders shouldn’t be giving veterinary advice.

The Science Behind Cannabis Formulation:

From terpenes to cannabinoids, Dr. Trina breaks down how she developed Rooted Owl’s CBD formula based on scientific research and holistic safety.

The Transformational Stories of Walter and Ruben:

Hear how two rescue dogs overcame anxiety and trauma through a combination of cannabis and compassionate care—and eventually no longer needed it.

The Birth of the Veterinary Cannabis Society:

Created out of frustration with legal gray areas and lack of education, Dr. Trina’s nonprofit offers unbiased resources, advocacy, and practitioner directories for vets and pet parents alike.

How Cannabis Can Be Used Preventatively:

Cannabis isn’t just for emergencies—Dr. Trina shares when and how it can help regulate inflammation, anxiety, and neurological imbalance before serious issues arise.

Balancing East and West in Pet Care:

From vaccines to nutrition to cannabis, Dr. Trina emphasizes the power of integrative medicine—where science meets soul, and prevention meets purpose.

✅ Cannabis is powerful—but must be used under expert guidance

✅ Anxiety, trauma, and pain can all be addressed holistically

✅ Healing is possible—even for pets with tough pasts

✅ Education is the bridge between fear and informed care

✅ The future of veterinary medicine includes balance, integration, and compassion

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever been curious about cannabis for pets—or want to hear from one of the most respected voices in the space—this episode is essential listening. Dr. Trina Hazzah brings humor, heart, and unmatched knowledge to a misunderstood field.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Dr. Trina Hazzah:

• Website: greennile.org
• Veterinary Cannabis Society: veterinarycannabissociety.org
• Instagram: @dr.trinahazzah
• Email: [email protected]

Know a pet parent, vet, or animal care professional?

Share this episode and help normalize safe, science-backed cannabis education in animal wellness.

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Alex Varney, Vice President of Operations at Pinnacle Pets and founder of Considerably Bold. Together, they dive into the emotional toll of running a pet care facility, navigating client red flags, and the burnout that comes when your heart outpaces your limits.

Alex opens up about the realities behind the front desk—from managing anxious dogs and difficult owners to the impossible expectations placed on small teams. She shares a raw story of having to turn away a dog for safety reasons—only to be accused of lacking faith. That turning point led her to reimagine how she could stay in the industry without sacrificing her wellbeing.

What started as a conference talk submission became Considerably Bold, a budding community-driven initiative that helps pet care professionals avoid burnout, create healthier operations, and find purpose through support—not isolation.

From firm boundaries to heartfelt business, this conversation is for anyone who’s ever loved animals so much it hurt.

When Compassion Isn’t Enough:

Alex walks through a high-stakes situation where kindness toward an aggressive dog wasn’t enough—and why ethical care sometimes means saying “no.”

The Burnout Behind the Business:

Long hours, emotional labor, and leadership without support led Alex to a breaking point—and ultimately a new way forward.

Why Boundaries Are an Act of Care:

Saying no to unsafe clients or situations isn’t failure—it’s protection for staff, pets, and the integrity of care.

The Birth of Considerably Bold:

Alex shares how her burnout turned into a mission to help others thrive—through conference speaking, peer resources, and community connection.

Building Pet Care Community Beyond Facebook Groups:

From veterinarians to local treat makers, Alex explains how real-world partnerships keep her business resilient and community-first.

Helping Others Step Out of the Day-to-Day:

Alex shares why owners working every shift aren’t building a business—they’re building exhaustion. And how stepping back can mean moving forward.

✅ Pet care burnout is real—and often invisible

✅ Ethical care sometimes requires difficult conversations

✅ Saying no can be the most compassionate choice

✅ Community over competition is how the industry grows

✅ Small businesses thrive when supported by local partnerships

✅ You don’t have to run the business and be the business

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to do it all—or want a more sustainable path in the pet care world—this episode offers honesty, hope, and practical insight. Alex Varney is here to say: you’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to be this hard.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Alex Varney:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alex-m-varney-72a02a70
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://pinnaclepets.com/

Know someone in the pet care industry?

Share this episode to help normalize healthy boundaries, emotional support, and peer mentorship in a space where burnout runs deep—and passion runs even deeper.

In this eye-opening episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with animal naturopath Dr. Kim Bloomer—founder of Aspen Bloom Pet Care—to explore a radically different path in pet wellness. What began with the adoption of a Great Dane-Shar Pei mix named Shadrach became a mission: to challenge the conventional model of veterinary care and return to nature-based healing.

Dr. Kim shares her journey from corporate veterinary support to outspoken natural health advocate, tackling everything from gut health and over-vaccination to the dangers of antibiotics and processed pet foods. This isn’t just a conversation about holistic remedies—it’s a call for conscious, educated pet parenting.

Together, they uncover the systems that are failing both pets and people and offer a grounded alternative rooted in nutritional integrity, informed decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration between veterinarians and wellness practitioners.

The Wake-Up Call Named Shadrach:

Dr. Kim opens up about the dog who changed everything—and how his health struggles inspired her deep dive into naturopathy.

The Pandemic Pet Crisis:

A surge in adoptions, followed by a wave of surrenders, is overwhelming shelters. Dr. Kim explores the root causes and why labeling dogs as “aggressive” often misses the point.

Gut Health Is Ground Zero:

From probiotics and enzymes to raw feeding and detoxification, Dr. Kim breaks down how the gut is connected to behavior, immunity, and overall well-being.

Antibiotics and Over-Vaccination:

Why quick-fix medicine can have long-term consequences—and what tighter testing and informed protocols could offer instead.

Prevention Is the Best Cure:

Dr. Kim shares daily, natural strategies pet owners can adopt to prevent chronic issues—without waiting for symptoms to spiral.

The Call for Collaboration:

Rather than pitting holistic care against conventional medicine, Dr. Kim makes the case for dialogue, openness, and working together for the good of the animal.

✅ Natural wellness is rooted in prevention, not reaction

✅ The microbiome matters—what’s in your pet’s gut shapes their life

✅ Vaccines and meds have a place—but so does discernment

✅ Shelter dogs are not broken—they’re often misunderstood

✅ Healing starts with education, intuition, and whole-body care

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever questioned the mainstream model of pet care—or want to raise healthier animals from the inside out—this episode delivers truth, tools, and transformation with one of the boldest voices in natural wellness.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Dr. Kim Bloomer:

• Dr. Kim’s Profile:linkedin.com/in/drkim
• Websites: AspenbloomPetCare.com (Personal), Bark-N-Blog.com (Blog), AnimalNaturopathy.org (Council)

Know a pet parent exploring holistic options?

Share this episode and help shift the conversation from symptom-chasing to root-cause healing.

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Irith Bloom, internationally certified dog trainer, behavior consultant, and founder of The Sophisticated Dog. Together, they unpack Irith’s lifelong resistance to harsh training methods and how that early instinct evolved into a professional mission to transform how we relate to our pets.

Irith shares her journey from training a Rottweiler at age 10 using kindness and intuition, to discovering positive reinforcement after rescuing a high-energy English Shepherd in urban Los Angeles. That experience led her to pursue professional credentials, eventually becoming an educator, mentor, and co-founder of Carefree Companion, a platform advancing stress resilience in animals.

From dog training to cultural analysis, this conversation explores how empathy, science, and global collaboration are reshaping animal care.

Understanding Negative Reinforcement vs. Positive Reinforcement

Irith breaks down the difference and why she moved away from physical cues and pressure-based training toward methods that center agency, motivation, and mutual trust.

The Rescue Dog That Changed Everything

Her experience rehabilitating a behaviorally challenged English Shepherd opened the door to modern training science—and a new career.

Global Attitudes Toward Animal Welfare

From Scandinavia’s gold standard to cultures still rooted in traditional dominance-based methods, Irith explores how societal values shape the treatment of animals.

The Link Between Gender Equity and Humane Training

Drawing from cultural studies and field experience, Irith connects more progressive animal welfare practices with societies that prioritize human rights and gender equity.

How Carefree Companion Is Teaching Stress Resilience

Co-founded with animal behaviorist Dr. Christina Spalding, this professional-facing platform trains trainers to reduce animal stress, the key to long-term behavior change.

Certifications That Set the Standard

Irith discusses her commitment to ongoing education and why regulation, ethics, and credentials matter in an unregulated field.

✅ Positive reinforcement builds trust—and it's effective

✅ Culture plays a major role in how animals are treated

✅ Stress resilience is foundational to behavior success

✅ Empathy is a strength, not a soft skill—in both humans and animals

✅ True progress blends science, compassion, and lived experience

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever questioned traditional training methods—or are curious how culture, kindness, and science can come together for better pet outcomes—this episode is full of insight. Irith Bloom brings wisdom, warmth, and real-world experience to the mic.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Irith Bloom:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/irith-bloom-25a6428
• Website: TheSophisticatedDog.com
• Book: Your Puppy and You on Amazon or Dogwise
• Professional Resource: CarefreeCompanion.com

Know someone with a reactive rescue dog—or a passion for kinder training? Share this episode and help promote empathy, education, and better outcomes for pets and their people everywhere.

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Tiana Crane, registered veterinary technician, wildlife enthusiast, and founder of Wayward Wings Travel. Together, they explore how burnout in veterinary medicine led Tiana to create a unique travel business focused on helping fellow vet professionals unwind, reconnect, and heal in the wildest corners of the world.

Tiana opens up about her 20+ years in the veterinary field, the emotional exhaustion she witnessed (and lived through), and how a layoff turned into a calling. From whale watching in the Arctic to chasing the Northern Lights, her trips are more than getaways—they’re a form of self-care and professional preservation.

They also dive into her advocacy work with the Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians, the rise of mid-level veterinary practitioners, and how she’s shaping future leaders through advisory roles in vet tech programs.

Veterinary Burnout Is Real—and Overlooked:

Tiana shares the emotional cost of vet work and how common it is for professionals to feel guilty about taking time off.

Travel as Therapy:

With a deep love for nature and adventure, Tiana explains how wildlife travel helps caregivers truly unplug and return recharged.

Wildlife Wonders:

Hear about her favorite Arctic sightings—like orcas, humpbacks, reindeer, and the elusive Northern Lights—and why Antarctica is next on her list.

The Reality of Pet Travel:

Tiana offers expert tips on traveling with pets, understanding health requirements, and navigating airline rules—without the stress.

Advocacy & Education:

From helping pass laws to mentoring students, Tiana is shaping the future of veterinary medicine beyond the clinic floor.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Veterinary professionals deserve real time off—and nature can help heal

✅ Burnout prevention requires cultural and systemic change

✅ Wildlife travel offers awe, perspective, and restoration

✅ There’s a growing movement to elevate vet techs and their career paths

✅ Supporting those who care for animals starts with caring for them, too

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever felt stuck, stressed, or stretched thin in animal care—or just need an excuse to finally chase the Northern Lights—this episode is your sign. Tiana Crane brings wisdom, wanderlust, and heart to a conversation that’s as empowering as it is adventurous.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Tiana Crane:

• 🌐 Website: waywardwingstravel.com
• 📧 Email: [email protected]
• 💼 LinkedIn: Tiana Crane

Know someone in veterinary medicine who needs a break? Share this episode and remind them: it’s okay to get away—and come back better.

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Tamara Kruse,  Director of Veterinary Care at the San Antonio Zoo. Together, they explore the unseen world of zoo veterinary medicine—from morning rounds with jaguars to reproductive programs and enrichment strategies designed to keep animals both physically and mentally thriving.

Dr. Kruse opens up about her journey—from bottle-feeding rescue puppies as a child to helping Komodo dragons hatch in Texas. With compassion, humor, and deep knowledge, she shares what it takes to care for everything from tiny pygmy falcons to 300-pound tigers—and how her adoptive parents and a deep-rooted love for wildlife set her on this path.

From the science behind zoo breeding programs to why starfish are her unlikely favorite animal, this episode offers a heartfelt look at what it means to love, protect, and learn from the animal kingdom—every single day.

A Day in the Life of a Zoo Veterinarian:

Dr. Kruse walks us through her unpredictable workday—from early team rounds to sedating lemurs, doing full-body exams on lions, and ensuring animals recover with minimal stress.

Behind the Scenes of Species Survival Plans:

Discover how genetics drive zoo breeding strategies—and why many animals aren’t spayed or neutered but given temporary birth control to preserve species diversity.

Releasing Animals Back into the Wild:

Learn how institutions like the San Antonio Zoo are working to reintroduce threatened native species like the Texas horned lizard and desert pupfish into their natural habitats.

Enrichment Over Easy Meals:

Feeding time isn’t just tossing meat in a pan—Dr. Kruse describes the pulley systems and puzzles that mimic wild hunting behaviors, keeping predators like Komodo dragons mentally stimulated.

The Power of a Childhood Dream:

From watching Wild America to missing her own college graduation to intern in Alaska, Dr. Kruse shares how her calling was shaped by early influences—and how her dad once saved a bag of puppies from drowning.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Veterinary care in zoos is complex, collaborative, and built on deep trust

✅ Breeding and conservation programs are carefully managed for genetic health

✅ Enrichment is vital to preserving natural behaviors—even in captivity

✅ Adopted or not, the right support can launch a lifetime of compassion and purpose

✅ Even chocolate chip sea stars deserve a place in your heart

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to be a zoo vet—or how compassion, conservation, and science come together in one of the wildest jobs on earth—this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Kruse brings warmth, wisdom, and wonder to every minute.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Dr. Tamara Kruse:

• Visit: San Antonio Zoo
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tamara-kruse-26308165

Know someone who loves animals—or dreams of being a vet?

Share this episode to inspire the next generation of compassionate caretakers and conservation champions.

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with veterinary behaviorist Dr. Christopher Pachel, founder of Animal Behavior Clinic and co-owner of Instinct Dog Behavior & Training. Together, they explore a paradigm shift in dog training: from dominance and discipline to curiosity, empathy, and communication.

Dr. Pachel shares his journey from traditional training methods to a more compassionate, science-informed framework grounded in behavior, biology, and trust. Through powerful insights and real-life examples, he reveals why dogs don’t operate on rigid pack structures—and how “alpha dog” myths often do more harm than good.

From reshaping how we approach separation anxiety to rethinking the role of medication in training, this conversation dives deep into the emotional lives of animals and what it truly means to be a facilitator of “aha” moments for both pets and their people.

Why Pack Leader Thinking Is Outdated:

Dr. Pachel explains how domestic dogs don't live in strict social hierarchies—and why traditional dominance-based approaches often fail to meet a dog's actual needs.

The Empathy-First Framework That Works:

Rather than jumping to control or correction, Dr. Pachel teaches us to lead with empathy, educate with intention, and use correction sparingly—if at all.

Separation Anxiety & the Science of Comfort:

From short departures to remote-controlled treat dispensers, Dr. Pachel breaks down how to teach dogs to feel safe when home alone—without relying on fear or guesswork.

When—and Why—Medication Matters:

Whether it’s pharmaceuticals, pheromones, or supplements, Dr. Pachel outlines how medication can reduce panic and create space for learning—not as a crutch, but as a bridge to better behavior.

Why Getting a Second Dog Might Help (But Not Cure):

He weighs in on the pros and limitations of adding another dog to the household—and how it may mask, but not resolve, underlying anxiety.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Leadership doesn’t mean control—it means communication

✅ Behavior change starts with understanding, not punishment

✅ Dogs aren’t trying to dominate you—they’re trying to feel safe

✅ Emotional support is just as important for pets as it is for people

✅ Modern dog training blends science, heart, and skill

Listen Now:

If you’ve ever questioned the “alpha dog” mindset—or want to build a more thoughtful, effective relationship with your pet—this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Pachel offers a refreshingly humane and evidence-based path forward.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Dr. Christopher Pachel:

• Christopher Pachel’s Profile linkedin.com/in/christopher-pachel-dvm-dacvb-cabc-1017175
• Websites: animalbehaviorclinic.net (Veterinary Behavior Practice) facebook.com/drpachel (Facebook)www.drpachel.com(company)

Know someone with a reactive or anxious dog?

Share this episode and help spread a kinder, smarter approach to animal behavior—rooted in trust, not control.

In this episode of Rooted Tales, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Bruce Truman, a seasoned pet tech executive and advisor to Fear Free, to explore how animal health startups can scale smarter. From his roots on an Illinois pig farm to advising startups and industry leaders, Bruce shares how his career in veterinary innovation began with a chance encounter—and evolved into a 20+ year journey supporting pet wellness through business strategy and innovation.

Together, they unpack the power of strategic partnerships, thought leadership, and influencer alignment in the veterinary space. Bruce also offers tailored insights for brands like Rooted Owl, emphasizing the importance of science-backed data, wearable tech, and storytelling in bringing new products to market.

Plus, Bruce highlights his advisory work with Fear Free, a movement transforming how pets experience care by reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in veterinary environments. The episode wraps with a candid conversation about Jazz Fest, CBD for anxiety in pets, and a shared vision for healthier, happier animals through innovation and compassion.

From Farm Boy to Pet Tech Visionary:

Bruce shares how his humble Midwest beginnings gave him a deep respect for animals—and how a chance encounter launched his decades-long career in veterinary business consulting.

How Startups Can Scale Smarter:

The keys to success? Channel strategy, product-market fit, and the right mix of influencer and thought leadership—not just flashy marketing.

The Science Behind the Story:

Bruce explains why brands must back up wellness claims with real veterinary data—and how Rooted Owl is already making an impact with its joint and CBD formulations.

Fear Free and the Future of Pet Care:

As an advisor to Fear Free, Bruce offers an insider look at how reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in vet settings is reshaping clinical standards.

From Jazz Fest to Joint Support:

Bruce and Jeffrey bond over shared passions—from live music to holistic health—and discuss how Rooted Owl is helping real pets live with less pain and more joy.

Collaboration Over Competition:

Bruce shares why innovation in animal health requires cooperation across brands, educators, and tech partners—and how he's championing those bridges.

✅ Pet wellness must be backed by both science and compassion

✅ Not all influencers are created equal—vets and experts matter

✅ Fear Free principles are the future of ethical, effective pet care

✅ Wearables, CBD, and joint supplements are shaping a new frontier

✅ Collaboration across disciplines drives real change for animals

Listen Now:

If you’re building in pet tech—or just want to understand how veterinary innovation really works this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and insight. Bruce Truman brings clarity, strategy, and heart to the pet wellness space.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Bruce Truman:

• Bruce L.’s Profile: linkedin.com/in/bruce-l-truman-mba-pet-industry-expert
• Website: bltconsulting.com/ (Company)

Know someone launching a pet health product or startup? Share this episode and help spread smarter, kinder innovation in the animal wellness world.

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Cindy Trice—relief veterinarian, cancer survivor, and multi-passionate entrepreneur behind Relief Rover, KickIt Pajamas, and HomeLove. Together, they explore how burnout, purpose, and personal hardship can lead to groundbreaking innovations in veterinary care, fashion, and beyond.

Dr. Trice shares how relief veterinary work gave her back control of her time, her passion, and her mental health. From hopping clinics across the country to launching platforms that connect vets with practices and pet parents with better care access, her journey is both deeply personal and refreshingly practical.

But her impact extends beyond animals. After a devastating cancer diagnosis shortly after vet school, Cindy turned her hospital experience into a mission—reimagining what healing looks like through stylish, functional pajamas for patients. Her company, KickIt Pajamas, aims to restore dignity and comfort during treatment, one pocketed PJ at a time.

Whether you’re a pet parent, a caregiver, or a clinician, Cindy’s story reminds us that resilience, compassion, and creativity can change lives—and industries.

Relief Work as a Lifestyle & Lifeline:

Cindy explains the freedom and impact of working as a relief vet—and why it’s becoming a sustainable option in a burnout-prone industry.

Supporting Clinics, Clients, and Pets:

From quick case handoffs to emotional sensitivity, Cindy reveals the art of forging trust fast in new veterinary environments.

Sampling the Profession Coast-to-Coast:

With stints in Florida, Montana, Washington, and California, Cindy shares how relief work supported a travel-based lifestyle for her and her husband.

From Solo Vet to Multi-Founder:

Learn how Cindy’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to build Relief Rover, now part of the Hound ecosystem, empowering thousands of relief vets nationwide.

HomeLove and the Future of In-Home Pet Care:

Discover the new model Cindy is championing—licensed techs visiting pet homes for diagnostics, treatments, and basic care, boosting access and compliance.

Pajamas with a Purpose:

Hear the powerful backstory behind KickIt Pajamas—how Cindy’s own cancer journey inspired functional fashion designed to serve real patient needs with style and dignity.

Turning Pain into Advocacy:

Cindy opens up about joining the cervical cancer advocacy group Cervivor and their mission to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 through education and HPV vaccination.

Integrating Supplements, CBD, and Holistic Care:

The discussion turns personal as Jeffrey shares how Rooted Owl’s supplements helped his aging dog—and Cindy reflects on CBD's impact on her epileptic pup.

✅ Relief work gives vets the power to prevent burnout and control their schedule

✅ Personal health challenges can spark powerful innovations

✅ Emotional comfort is just as important as medical treatment

✅ There’s a growing need for in-home, accessible pet care

✅ Dignity, whether for pets or patients, matters deeply in healing

Listen Now:

If you care about comfort, caregiving, or compassion—from the clinic to the couch—this episode will open your eyes to how small changes can make a big impact. Dr. Cindy Trice brings honesty, humility, and innovation to every corner of the conversation.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Cindy Trice:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cindy-trice-9464566
• Website: https://kickitpajamas.com/

Share this episode and help spread the word about empowering care at work, at home, and in hospitals.

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.

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.

✅ 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: 317-219-8844
• 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.