How to Start a Dog Sitting Business
Dog sitting is a tremendous supplemental source of income, and is very fun. Whenever you are beginning any kind of business, it requires patience and a lot of preparation. The following steps can show you how to begin your own business.
- Begin with people who know you before going out to the general public. Let any of your friends who have dogs know that you are available to dog sit. You can be shocked at how many people love to have you dog sit for them. When a client knows someone they trust is taking care of their dog is priceless, and actually is less expensive than a kennel. It also provides comfort, knowing their dog is not with a stranger.
- Advertise aggressively in the summer months when people tend travel more. Get the word out to friends in May so they can start hiring you for summer weekends away. Be sure to ask them to get the word out about your services to help advertising.
- Thoroughly dog-proof your house.
- Create a website to advertise. Get testimonials from friends and use them as quotes on it. Put an ad in your local paper, as well.
- Keep in mind that dog sitting might not be your main source of income. However, with only a few clients your money can really grow. People talking in a positive manner about your business gets the word out. Eventually you are going to be dog sitting full-time.