Islip Resident Starts New Business Amid Pandemic

ISLIP, NY — Amid the pandemic, some Long Islanders have managed to start new businesses. One of those people was Islip native Dennis Stein, who launched his business JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Islip in September.

While the business doesn't have a physical address, it operates out of camo-covered trucks that could be seen driving around town.

The business operates a full-service commercial and residential junk removal and hauling business, doing everything from cleaning flooded basements to helping real estate agents prepare properties for showings to providing light demolition during home remodels.

During the coronavirus, Stein is making sure his business is following the guidelines to help stop the spread.

"We’re also taking the proper precautions when it comes to our staff and our customers, and we’re making our jobs as contactless as possible," he said. "I think everybody can agree that we’re all ready for this to be over, but in the meantime, we’re adjusting to the new normal and making sure all our services abide by the safety guideline."

This is not the only business for the 46-year-old, who also owns and operates Mosquito Joe and a Fit Body Boot Camp. However, the new business is more personal for Stein, whose father is a Navy veteran.

"I want to give back to the Veteran community and get the unemployment rate below 1 percent," he said. "Opening a business now has been especially important because we’re creating job opportunities for those who may have been laid off. We try to find any way to help that we can."

All JDog businesses are owned by a veteran or military family member, and the company is eco-friendly, saving 60 to 80 percent of everything from the landfill by finding creative ways to repurpose, recycle, or rehome materials.

Stein may live in West Islip now, but he is still happy to serve the community where he was born and raised as well.

"This is my community and I couldn’t imagine any other place to start my business," he said. "I want to do everything in my power to give back to those who helped me and pay it forward. Our community always looks to help people in need, especially Veterans. I love that they put American Flags up throughout all the neighborhoods."

One fun fact about the local businessman? He enjoys collecting GI Joes and Sports Cards.

"It’s fun to keep the memories going from your childhood," he said.