News Article

Introduction

The first thing to do is list reasons why you would want to start a dog walking business: a love of dogs; enjoyment of great out doors; the need to be active in your work rather than sitting in an office all day. The second question: Are you physically fit enough to do all the walking? It’s no good starting a business if you aren’t up to the physical tasks involved. Finally do the research! There are plenty of pet trade magazines and publications on the web to help with this. Most importantly research your potential client base: is there need for your dog walking service in the local area?

What is a Dog Walker?

Qualify what a dog walker does. Do you know? For example there is a great deal of difference between a pet sitter and a dog walker. Pet sitter responsibilities are based around the general domestic needs of a wide variety of species: not just dogs. A pet sitter might be required to feed, administer medication and keep the pet happy. A dog walker simply walks dogs, and cleans-up the poop of the canines in their charge. Watering and maybe administering meds can also be part of the remit.

The Legal Side of Business

What sort of business type will you be setting up? A sole proprietor is the most common for dog walkers. Although with any business separating your business and personal assets might be considered a wise move. In that case a Limited Liability Company would be more prudent. What about other aspects of the legal side? Perhaps your local government requires you to obtain a licence etc. Or they may insist that you are registered your business. Put that research hat on again and check it out. It goes without saying that good insurance is a must: expect the unexpected especially where dogs are concerned.

Administration

Any business will generate admin. This will involve contracts with you clients; reports on what your doing; a register of client details; vet details and pet care information; tax details. The most important are the rates you charge for your services. This can be dependant on the area where your clients live as well as what you will include in your service: for example, would you be qualified to administer meds? Therefore look at what client would require a dog walker and sort out the rates accordingly.

Conclusion

If you want to run a business that is fun and healthy, then a dog walking business is a great idea for any active person. You will get paid for doing work that you like and for being out and about rather than for being behind a desk or stuck on the shop floor. You should always remember though, that it is a business, and you should treat it as such. You should always treat your enterprise with a professional approach, and be ready to fulfil all of your commitments, even if the weather is lousy, or if you just don’t feel like it. If you are willing to do all this, then you could be starting a successful business.