How To Start A Dog Walking Business
With dog ownership on the rise, starting your own dog walking business is a great option for potential entrepreneurs. In the past dog walking was not necessarily a professional, organized business. Now dog walking can be a full time job and a great business opportunity. While dog walking services are most popular in urban areas you probably have seen them popping up all over. While there are options such as Doggy Daycare many would rather the personal interaction of someone coming to their home and spending time with their babies. A professional, qualified dog walking service breaks up long, lonely days and provides them with socialization and love while their owners have to work. It also provides peace of mind for stressed out dog owners who feel guilty about all the time they must spend away from their pooch.
Do Your Doggy Homework
Is There a Need?
Do you have a need for this service in your area? Open up the yellow pages or get online and do some research. Although I believe competition is great, make sure your area is not flooded with other dog walkers. Look for the serious walkers not just the mom & pop shop looking to make a few extra dollars. I also strongly suggest visiting your local pet care businesses such as vet offices, pet supply stores and groomers. You will also want to make sure you map out the area that you want to work in and keep your clients in close proximity. There is nothing worse (and expensive) then driving from one end of town to the other. Believe me I have made that mistake before. Are there a lot of businesses in your town? This is good for you because the workers must be at work all day and will need a dog walker. Get out there and meet people and ask these questions. Start-up Costs
Very minimal
It is relatively inexpensive to start a dog-walking service. Here are some basics that you will need - A more complete list and forms you can use can be found at Doggy Business 101:1. Reliable Car& travel expenses
2. Poop Bags
3. Business Cards
4. Cell Phone
5. Computer (this is optional but will be helpful in the long run)
6. Insurance
7. Extra Leashes
8. Pooper Scooper
9. Portable water bowls in case you stop at a park or another outing adventure
Marketing & Advertising
Appreciate Your Customers
Should you decide to move ahead in your venture some marketing ideas may include visiting networking groups, handing out business cards, visit any and all pet related businesses in your area and introduce yourself. People will refer to you if they trust you. Hand out flyers with some special rates for new customers. It probably goes without saying how important a website is but I will mention it again. Not all, but many people will begin online to find a pet sitter.Appreciate every single customer you get. Thank them after the initial interview for even considering you as well as showing your appreciation with cards throughout your employment. The BEST product I have found and I continue to use in any business is Send Out Cards - If you would like a free account visit my website at www.SendOutCards.com/dcn Remember that word of mouth has always been and will continue to be the best marketing out there so show your appreciation
Want To Learn More About The Dog Care Business?
by DoggyBusiness101
DoggyBusiness101
Hello to my fellow Pet Lovers! I've been a dog care provider for many years out of my home and after years of corporate jobs and pending layoffs, I fo... more »
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