Considering a Dog Walking Business?

A dog walking business is an outstanding way to generate some extra income as well as be a real help to your community.

If you have some flexibility in your schedule, it can even be managed as a part-time effort.

When I apply my dog-sense to the idea of being in this type of business, there are a few important things to consider as you get started.

Establish the Right Foundation

* You have a true love for dogs.

This is obviously a "must." If a dog walking business sounds like fun now, it can quickly deteriorate into, "just another job," unless you really sincerely care for those you are serving. Then, you will love your "job" too!

* You will protect the dog(s) and everyone (dog or human) around them.

It will be your responsibility to ensure the safety of those in your care as well as everyone your dog comes into contact with. The last thing you want, personally and professionally, is to have a dog that is in your care go a little crazy, get away from you and jump up and knock down an elderly person. Or, worse yet, bite someone.

* You will protect property.

Some of us can be a little destructive. Especially younger pups. You need to protect all property in which you may come into contact. Also, you want to ensure your own personal property is not destroyed by your client.

* You will obey the law.

Know and observe all leash laws. Know the different areas and parks in which dogs are welcomed and those where they are not.

Sometimes we can get loud and this may not appropriate for areas with a noise ordinance.

Know your turf and observe all associated laws and community directives.

* You will be on time and always diligent in providing good exercise for those in your care.

This is just good dog walking business dog-sense. You must act professionally and always be on time. This is not only good for building a positive reputation, but will enable your business to run smoothly.

You must also, of course, provide great service to your clients. For some, you will be providing the only exercise they get. Exceed the expectations of your clients (both, furry and otherwise), and you will really help to ensure your success.

* You will be fair in setting your fees.

You should set a basic fee schedule and stick to it. Word of mouth will be your best source of advertising and, certainly, those discussions will include money and how much you charge.

Occasionally, you may run into someone that really needs your help, but truly cannot afford it. An elderly or disabled person on a fixed income may not be able to manage your full fee. In these cases, rather than adjusting your fee, I would suggest you donate some time to them.

It will make you feel great, build an even better reputation for you and allow you to maintain consistency in your fee schedule.

* You will keep good records and manage your efforts truly as a business.

Keep track of your income and expenses. Open a separate bank account for your business. Pay taxes as required. Be a professional in every aspect of your dog walking business.

Insurance is a Good Idea

Unfortunately, we also live in a society where people are quick to strike out and bring a lawsuit if they believe they have been wronged in any way.

I would encourage you to seriously consider acquiring insurance for your dog walking business. You can get pet sitting insurance that will cover general liability issues, bodily injury, and property damage. It will provide protection from your human clients and also against others you may encounter during your walks.

This insurance is fairly economical and pretty easy to get. An internet search can take you to a provider that can help you in your area. Be sure to check around and try to get at least three quotes. Just explain the type of business you have and be sure you are comparing the three quotes fairly. If you don't understand any aspect of the insurance that is being suggested, don't be embarrassed to ask.

This will give you good peace of mind as you manage your business and endeavor to take good care of your clients. It will give you the personal financial protection you need as a business person in today's world.

How to Get Started

Get a broad base of experience by handling different types of dogs, in varied situations, before you formally start your dog walking business.

Start with single dogs before working your way up to multiples. You will run into many different types of dog owners, so it may be helpful to keep some extra supplies around. It will be good to have extra collars, both slip and buckle, and leashes available.

You need to interview your client about their dog(s) prior to getting started. Ask them to tell you all about their dog. Do they have any medical problems and special needs you may need to know about? How are they around strangers? Get a sense of their personality. All said, you will need to watch the dog carefully as you get to know them. Many dog owners have a view of their pet that may not be consistent with how they behave out in public.

You will also need to work out all the business aspects of your professional relationship with your dog walking business clients. What is the preferred walking schedule? What fee will you charge? When do you expect to collect your money? If you provide additional services, such as washing and grooming, how often will they be provided and what will you charge?

How to Set Your Fees

It's ok to call around to others in the dog walking business to ask about their services and their fees. This can be great information for how you set yourself up. You will get a sense of their professionalism. Do they have a lot of experience? Do they have insurance?

Fees vary widely by location. Some charge by individual walk and another determining factor will be the size of the dog. If you live in a larger community, you may be able to charge by the day based upon providing at least a couple walks each day for a given dog.

I would set a minimum walk time as 30 minutes, with a maximum at one hour. A one hour walk is long so be sure you are "consulting" with your clients and giving advice on how to start with certain size or aged dogs. A one hour walk could be too much for a particular dog.

Enjoy!

Whatever you do in life, if you pursue it with excellence and endeavor to be the best, you will be in demand and the money will come!

And, you will be providing a needed service to your community!

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