BUCYRUS – Carol O’Banion is happy to do the dirty work.

O’Banion is the owner of Happy Paws Waste Removal, a professional pet waste removal service.  For five years now, she’s been scooping the poop for clients, ensuring that their yards are clean and sanitary – for them and their pets.

“It’s a very odd occupation, especially if you’ve never heard of it,” said O’Banion, a longtime pet owner.  “I love my customers though.  I get to visit with the animals, and I’ve met some of the most amazing people.”

O’Banion picks up the poop and rakes it into a scoop box, then transfers it into a trash bag and bucket.  If customers prefer, she will also haul it away.  She finishes each job with by applying a deodorizing spray throughout the yard.

Although estimates are free, O’Banion said she charges a first-time pick-up fee since the volume of waste is typically higher and requires more of her time.  Prices start at $15 a week, depending on the size of the property and the number of dogs, she said.

“For one small dog it isn’t going to be as much as for three large dogs,” she said.  “Normally for routine customers it usually doesn’t take longer than 50 to 20 minutes.  If it’s a huge yard though, of course it will take longer.”

O’Banion, 41, said she decided to launch her own business after seeing the growing need for a service to relieve pet owners of the not so pleasant task.  She started in Union and Marion counties, then expanded into Crawford County after moving to Bucyrus in 2022.

It was a natural fit.

O’Banion has plenty of pets herself.  Not just dogs and cats, but also ducks, guinea pigs, and even chinchillas.  Plus, early on in her career she used to work at the Humane Society in Union County.

As a sideline of Happy Paws, O’Banion also does house cleaning.  Her services include everything from one-time home cleaning to window washing, deep cleaning, oven cleaning, and what she calls move in and move out cleaning of residences.

The small business owner said the flexibility of her schedule – especially when starting out with a young daughter at home – has been a perk of the profession.  “It works out well.  I really enjoy it.  I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s been great.”