How to Start a Pet Sitting Service

Lots of people are making tons of money by owning and operating their own pet sitting services. Generally people think that starting your own business is difficult. Sometimes this is true, but you would be surprised at just how easy it is to start your own pet sitting service. Here are some easy steps which will help you to get things underway.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Start up funds - $100
• Computer and internet
• Business cards
• Billing invoices
• Website
• Personal time
• Motivation

How to Start a Pet Sitting Service

1. Create your business plan:
   This is the most important step. You must decide just what services you are going to provide and how much you intend to charge for them. Check out a few other local companies so you can get an idea of what rates will be competitive.

2. Scout the local market:
   Next you want to see what competitors are in your immediate market. Simply use a major search engine and you will be able to easily find who is in your area providing similar services.

3. Design a simple website:
   You can usually find places that allow you to create simple websites online for free. Some of them will charge a nominal monthly fee for hosting. Simply create a few basic pages including what you charge for services rendered and a contact page.

4. Order Business cards and invoices:
   There are several large websites which offer great deals on business cards and let you design them online. Order a few hundred so you have plenty. Next make a stop at the local office supplies store and buy some billing invoices.

5. Hang out at dog parks:
   With your business cards and motivation in hand, head to the local dog park. This is where you will be able to easily find some of your first clients. Network and pass out cards while talking to people and socializing with their pets; repeat this every weekend until your client roster is filled.

6. Watch the clients roll in:
   Once you have implemented the above steps you can literally watch the clients pour in along with the extra money. Whether you keep your clients is up to how well you service them.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to create a spreadsheet so you can easily track who owes you money.
• After you have enough clients you may want to purchase a credit card machine so you can accept multiple forms of payment.
• Insurance is always a plus when you are providing any type of service so you know that you are covered in the case of a lawsuit.
• Never be too aggressive with people about your services, if they are not interested be polite and move on.
• Customer service is everything. Make sure you are punctual for your clients and are always servicing them and their pets with the very best service.

Resources

• Check out other competitors
• More pet sitting services

[wildanimalmad]

on 1/24/2008 Wow- thanks, just passed this info onto my friend who wants to start up a dog sitting business. She was so impressed!!!