Despite the fact that dog walking is not
considered a true profession to many, it has become big business for
those who are good at it. And, being one of the easiest businesses to
start and maintain, there are newcomers every day. Especially since we
are a nation of busy, dog lovers.
So, although most people are committed to
ensuring that their dogs get the proper exercise. They usually lack the
time, and in some cases the physical ability to do it themselves. This
is where you step in, by offering your dog walking services.
Before You Start
Before you pass out a flyer or add your
first customer it is important to determine what you will charge as your
fee. This is important and will prevent you from showing favoritism or
giving different prices to different owners. Remember, people talk; and,
you do not want customers who feel they are being charged unfairly. Be
sure that your rates are fair to both you and your customers. If you are
renting, check with your landlord to see if there will be any problems
on the off chance that you need to bring clients home, especially if you
are thinking of offering dog washing or feeding as an additional
service. Finally talk to your neighbors about your plans.
Start Up Costs and Needs
Though a dog walking business is
relatively inexpensive to start there are a few key things that you will
need. The most important, being a love of dogs, the outdoors, and long
walks. Many underestimate the physical stamina needed to keep up with
dogs. They also fail to consider the time and commitment involved. It is
often over looked; but, you will need a good memory to distinguish
between your clients and their needs. There are dogs on special diets,
with special medicines, and special needs. A good dog walker can stay on
top of and eventually anticipate these needs.
You will need money for marketing,
which should consist predominately for making copies of flyers. Yet, you
may also consider keeping dog food, toys, and dog washing products on
hand as well. If you don't have any, a good pair of walking shows
couldn't hurt.
Marketing
Again, you should focus your marketing
strategies on inexpensive, but effective methods. Such as using word of
mouth, passing out flyers, online classifieds advertising, and knocking
on the doors of any elderly or disabled people you may know who have a
dog.
Things to Consider
Due to the number of new dog walking
businesses springing up everyday, consider the things that you could do
to set your business apart from the pack. For an additional fee you may
want to offer services like dog washing or feeding. If you are a stay at
home mom, you can get you smaller children to help creating a fun family
business.
