FAQs
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FAQs *
Do you work year-round?
We work year‑round to keep your yard clean — even through winter. Calgary doesn’t stay frozen all season, so during thaws, melts, and chinooks we continue regular service to prevent spring “poop soup.” The only days we take off are stat holidays or times when the weather is truly inclement conditions that make service unsafe.
How will I know when you are coming to clean my yard?
When you book, we will email you an assigned day for your cleanup. The day of the cleanup our technician will send you a message letting you know when they will be there - this message will be either 5 to 15 minute arrival window. Because yard conditions and travel time can vary, exact arrival times are not possible at an earlier time.
Can my dog be in the yard during cleanup?
Yes, your dog can absolutely be in the yard during cleanup. We just ask that an adult be present at the start of the visit until both your dog and our technician are comfortable with one another. Once everyone is at ease, we’re happy to continue the service with your dog enjoying their yard as usual.
If my dog is aggressive, can you still clean my yard?
Yes, we can clean your yard if your dog is aggressive. If your dog has shown aggression or is uncomfortable with strangers, please let us know ahead of time. For everyone’s safety, our technician will only enter the yard when your dog is securely inside your home. This ensures a smooth, stress‑free visit while still keeping your yard fully maintained.
What happens if I’m not satisfied with the cleanup?
At All Paws, we take great pride in delivering exceptional service every visit. If you’re ever not satisfied with the cleanup provided, we’ll make it right at no additional cost. Simply contact our office team and we’ll return within 24 hours to address the issue. Your satisfaction is always our priority.
Is it better to do a few one-time cleans throughout the year, or to be on a weekly service?
Choosing between weekly service and a one‑time cleanup comes down to your preference as a pet parent. At All Paws, we’re here to support you no matter which option you choose.
weekly service - you’ll reduce parasites and bacteria in your yard, enjoy quicker cleanups, and stay on a dedicated schedule
one‑time cleans - the cost can be higher because the cleanup takes longer, and if lingering odor remains, Calgary Bylaw may issue complaints
Is there any time of the year that you will not be scooping?
At All Paws, we take off all statutory holidays so our technicians can enjoy time with their families. If your scheduled visit falls on a stat holiday, we’ll come out the following week to remove two weeks of waste — and you’ll only be charged for one week.
Will weather prevent you from scooping?
Typically, we’re out scooping regardless of the weather. We clean in snow, rain, or sunshine — whatever Calgary throws our way. The only time we may need to cancel is during extreme temperatures, either over 30°C or below –30°C, when it becomes unsafe for our technicians. Thanks to Calgary’s frequent thaws, melts, and chinooks, we’re able to maintain service all winter long and prevent the dreaded spring “poop soup.”
What are the benefits to a weekly service?
There are several benefits to a weekly service:
Health Protection - Reduces bacteria and parasites in the yard, protecting both animals and people.
Environmental Protection - Contributes to a cleaner environment.
Aesthetic Appeal - Enhances overall look and feel of property.
Lawn Health - Reduces and/or prevents lawn damage caused by accumulated dog waste.
Convenience - Weekly cleanups saves time and effort of removing waste. You will know what day we will come; if you are not on a weekly service, you may have to wait for a few days and the cost will be higher for one-time cleanups.
Smell - Weekly cleanups reduces the smell.
Is there anything I need to do before having my yard cleaned?
Your yard doesn’t have to be spotless for us to scoop, but certain conditions can limit how much waste we’re able to remove. If grass or weeds are very tall, they can hide waste and reduce how thorough the cleanup can be. Likewise, excess garbage or items in the yard make it difficult for our technician to reach everything, as we do not move objects to search for waste. For example, if there is waste under a trampoline near the center, we cannot safely access it.
What is the best time of year to begin service?
You can begin service at any time of the year — Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter. We do recommend starting before the first snowfall so your yard has a clean base going into winter. During colder months, snow can temporarily cover waste, but Calgary’s frequent thaws, melts, and chinooks allow us to continue servicing your yard throughout the season. Our technicians work extra hard during melt periods, and they’re equipped with ice chippers to remove as much waste as possible, no matter the weather. Even in winter, we stay committed to keeping your yard clean and preventing the dreaded spring “poop soup.”
What is the best surface for my yard/dog run other than grass?
Again, this is up to you, and our technicians are here for you regardless of the surface covering you choose. There are pros and cons for all surfaces. Regardless of what surface you decide on, none are 100% maintenance free. Here are a few of the most popular choices:
Clover - Clover is a sustainable and environmentally alternative. Clover is increasing in popularity because of its low maintenance.
PROS - Drought resistant, attract pollinators and is pet friendly.
CONS - Some pests may be attracted to clover lawns and may not withstand heavy foot traffic as well as traditional grass.
Gravel - Gravel is a commonly used ground cover do to its durability and affordability. It offers excellent drainage, preventing mud and standing water.
PROS: Excellent drainage, preventing muddy conditions. It’s also relatively affordable and readily available.
CONS: Can be difficult to clean, as fecal matter can get trapped between the stones and waste can be stuck to gravel. Some dogs might be tempted to eat the gravel, posing a choking hazard. Gravel can get hot in direct sunlight.
Mulch - Mulch is a natural and often readily available. Provides a soft surface for your dog to walk and play on.
PROS: Provides a soft and comfortable surface. It can also help suppress weeds and reduce moisture.
CONS: Some types of mulch can decompose quickly and may harbor bacteria. Rubber mulch can get very hot in direct sunlight. Some dogs are allergic to wood mulch.
Artificial Grass - Artificial grass offers a low-maintenance and clean solution for dog runs. It looks and feels like real grass and requires minimal upkeep.
PROS: Easy to clean and maintain. Provides a consistent and comfortable surface for your dog to play on.
CONS: Can be more expensive that other ground cover options. It can get hot in direct sunlight. Proper drainage is essential to prevent urine odors.
Concrete - Concrete provides a durable surface.
PROS: Very durable and easy to wash down with a hose.
CONS: It can be hard to scoop waste off of concrete, as heat can bake it onto the concrete. It can be hard on your dogs joints as it doesn’t provide any cushioning. Proper drainage is essential.
Dirt - Dirt is generally the least desirable option for a dog run.
PROS: Low cost.
CONS: Quickly becomes muddy after rain, is difficult to clean, harbors bacteria and parasites and encourages digging. It offers no cushioning and can lead to unsanitary conditions.