how do you start up dog walking as a business?

Question

i've been thinking about starting a dog walking business for a while now ,but don't know where to begin

Answer 1

I think it's a great idea!

I recommend taking a pet CPR class and possibly an animal handling class. Show that you are a professional who can handle any situation. Local dog parks are a great place to meet and greet people. Start with a neighbor's dog or a friend's dog to get some references. You can also spend some time at a local animal shelter walking dogs - this will get you used to all different sizes and personalities.

And remember, good dog owners treat their dogs like family members. They don't want just anyone walking them. They want to feel like they can trust you 100%. After all, the dog's life is in your hands.

Once you've built up some references, get a Yahoo! Business web page for your business. Link to the letters of reference and your resume (CPR classes, handling classes, Animal Shelter Volunteer work, etc), photos of you with the animals, and have a FAQ and Contact page. It can be simple, but it's one step to being more professional.

If you are looking at this as a "business" business, then eventually you'll probably have to look into a business license and a Tax ID - this will make you even more legit and then you'll be able to write off pooper scoopers, leashes, and probably even your dog walking clothes on your taxes.

Good luck to you! : )

Answer 2

Typically dog walkers offer walks of one hour or more and most take several dogs on each walk. Some local authorities have introduced regulations and bye laws that state the maximum number of dogs that may be taken out at any one time.

Ideally, you will need to have open spaces near your home that are suitable for off lead walks.It is preferable if you have a few options, such as woodland, park, beaches or fields so that you can vary the areas and prevent boredom for the dogs and yourself!

Purchase a vehicle suitable for transporting several dogs at a time and advertising your services will be your biggest set up costs. If you run your own business, you will need to take out third party liability and care custody and control insurance.

It is recommended that you request that the dogs in your care are fully vaccinated, insured, micro chipped and that they wear a dog collar with identity tag.

Find out about any specific medical problems, ensure that the owner leaves their vet’s contact details with you and insist that the dog is insured. Earning rates vary from between £8 - £15 per dog per walk, depending on where you are based.

Answer 3

A good way to start off is to join PSI - Pet Sitters International.

This article helped my g/f out when she wanted to start her own dog walking business:

http://wehow.ehow.com/how_2028486_start-dog-walkingpet-sitting-service.html

Answer 4

If you want it to be a real legitimate business, you should start by finding a book about it at amazon.com, I did this before starting a housekeeping business, it told me everything I needed to know.

Answer 5

Go to a dog shelter home and do voluntary work for a while. That way you can see if you handle it and you will make good contacts for the future. Good luck.

Answer 6

make up some flyers get friends and family to put them on work notice boards and give to friends etc,and of course word of mouth usually good.put adverts un your local paper and in local shop windows and if you have the time put a few leaflets through doors.hope this helps.happy walking.x

Answer 7

Buy yourself a pooper-scooper, put a note in the chippies window, and you are in business! Your theme tune can be "Walkin' The Dog"

Answer 8

start by walking dogs in the neighborhood you live in. did you ever think about that?

Answer 9

just start, do you have a local dog park? start handing out flyers, include testimonials of people who have witnessed your behavior with pets, and advertise with the vets offices....easy!!

Answer 10

Find rich, lazy people. lol

Try an ad in the newspaper, or post a few handbills.