How to Operate a Dog Walking Business
When you are considering how to run your dog walking business, look at a few aspects. These would include things such as how to get started, acquiring clients (two- and four-legged), insurance and how to price your services. Pets such as dogs are big business and increasingly considered part of the family. Any business is challenging, but if your heart is in it and it's a fit for your lifestyle, there could be happy dog walking trails ahead for you.
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Things You'll Need
- Business License
- Advertising budget
- Competitive Research
- Adequate Facility and Supplies
Instructions
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Operating your business
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Your typical client will be someone who works during the day or even later. Nearby business parks are good spots for passing out flyers or gaining permission to post your brochure in a common area.
Your local community is also a great place to find clients. Networking is a great marketing tool so start by spreading the word about your services to neighbors and friends. -
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You'll need to ascertain your start-up costs as well. Some good news is that dog walking is relatively inexpensive to operate. Check for local licensing requirements, which vary widely. Some basic dog training courses and reading are always good ideas before you get underway. You will also need things such as business cards and a dog waste scooper. A good dog walker also gains credibility by becoming involved in a local animal organization or two.
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There are a few important quasi-legal items to consider. Prepare an agreement that itemizes the terms you arrive at with your individual clients. These should include your charge per walk or hour, the specified times, location of pick up or drop off, etc. It should be executed by both parties with each getting a copy so there's no ambiguity. Don't forget to include Fido Q. Public's name on the agreement!
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Consider diversifying your business to include other responsibilities and services offered to your clients. According to Camp Bow Wow, which is the nation's largest doggie day care company, there are many opportunities for providing a wider array of products within your dog walking business. These include everything from dog food to doggie adventures.
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Be sure to set your business growth and income expectations realistically. Do some competitive research to determine the current market rate for dog walking services in your area. Make sure you have adequate time and budget available for your start-up and ongoing operations as well. Most of all, have a passion for dogs. You may just end up having more fun when you're working than when you're not.
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