Awards & Recognition
Award-winning local service
In 2024, The Poop Valet earned three major small-business awards across Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge — plus the Platinum Award for Pet Waste Removal in CommunityVotes Cambridge every year from 2023 through 2026. Recognition for reliable service, real community impact, and founder Rick Couchman's story of building a thriving business after years of mental health challenges.
Rotman Family Entrepreneur of the Year
Rise · 2024
Founder Rick Couchman was named the 2024 Rotman Family Entrepreneur of the Year by Rise — the national charity founded with the Rotman family and the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management. The award celebrates entrepreneurs who have overcome significant personal challenges; for Rick, that meant more than a decade navigating mental health before launching The Poop Valet and turning it into a thriving local route.
New Business of the Year (Under 2 Years)
Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce · 2024
At the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce's 2024 Business Excellence Awards, The Poop Valet was named New Business of the Year (Under 2 Years) — recognizing a standout new local business making a real impact in its first two years.
New Venture of the Year
Cambridge Chamber of Commerce · 2024
The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce honoured The Poop Valet with New Venture of the Year at its 2024 Business Excellence Awards, presented at Tapestry Hall — the company's third major small-business award of the year.
Platinum Award — Pet Waste Removal
CommunityVotes Cambridge · 2023–2026
The Poop Valet has been voted the Platinum Award winner for Pet Waste Removal in CommunityVotes Cambridge every year from 2023 through 2026 — Platinum is the top honour, decided by local residents casting votes for their favourite Cambridge businesses. Four straight years at the top reflects the trust local dog owners place in our service.
In the news
The Poop Valet has been featured on CBC, Rogers TV, CambridgeToday, and more. See all our media coverage on the As Seen On page.
