This is the 2nd part in this blog series, to read Part I – Becoming a Dog Walker – Pros and Cons, click here
You’ve weighed up the pros and cons of going self-employed in the dog walking world and you’re ready to make a go of it. So, all you now need to do is set up a social media page, get a couple of clients and get walking with your waggy friends, yes?
NO!
Please don’t be fooled into thinking that doggy businesses deserve or need less planning than any other type of new company. Setting up any business on your own is a huge deal and is much more involved and complicated than some may think.
Here is a helpful list of steps you should be taking to take to firstly, ensure your business is viable, and furthermore, sustainable, manageable, profitable, and therefore enjoyable.
Product Knowledge
There are no official accreditations required to be a dog walker. The industry is unregulated, and so really, anyone can do it. However, selecting a dog walker is based on trust and so this low barrier to entry does mean that your potential clients will be super-wary and look for experience. This can be very difficult when starting out, and so arming yourself with some certifications in animal management, behaviour and first aid will be helpful when you begin.
If you have no experience and are not considering formal qualifications, you should at least look into volunteering in a rescue centre or animal home and do extensive research to make sure you know what behaviours to look out for and how to handle them.
Market Research
KNOW YOUR MARKET – this is arguably the most important piece of research of any budding business. How many dog owners are in your area? How many dog walkers are in your area? Call them up, do they have a waiting list, or are they all begging for your business? How much do they charge? What kind of walks do they do? What other services do they offer? You are brand new amongst all your competition and while they have the benefit of experience, you do not, so it’s important to get a birds-eye view of what you’re up against so you can market yourself competitively and stand out.
Licenses, Insurance, and Legislation
This may seem like “the boring stuff” but gaining a solid understanding of the “paperwork” you need to build trust in your business will be key to gaining your first customers, particularly if you are starting from scratch.
NARPS is a well-recognised association that we recommend familiarising yourself with, if not becoming a member of, to help you be safe in the knowledge that you have everything you need to begin. Business can be a lonely and daunting place, so having an association rep that can help instil you with some confidence is a worthwhile investment.
As mentioned, there are no legally required licenses to be a dog walker, but many do obtain a DBS check for extra reassurance which is particularly useful if you intend to become a keyholder for your clients.
You need to make sure your business is covered in case of damage, injury or loss, and so public liability insurance is a must. If you have employees, you will also need employers’ liability insurance. It is a good idea to cover your business equipment, get business legal protection (in the event someone takes you to court – it can happen) and personal accident insurance to cover loss of earnings.
Legislation is also an important one. As it is subject to change all the time and you don’t get notified, it’s something you must actively keep an eye on. Blue Cross has some useful resources in this area to make sure you are complying with the law.
Business Plan and Costing
Now is time for the big one – your business plan. This is arguably the most important document you will require and is not an easy or quick task, but without it, any business is doomed to fail. This is where you really nail down your plan of action and feasible, workable prices to ensure you stay afloat. Get it right and it will provide a great foundation to build a solid and successful business.
Admin
New businesses need to register with HMRC in order to submit earnings and pay the required tax and national insurance. Most dog walkers begin as a sole trader which is relatively straightforward to set up, but if you begin to expand and increase your turnover, you may need to convert to a limited company. In either case, if you’re not familiar with this system of tax paying then it’s a good idea to get yourself a book-keeper or accountant to help you. You will also need to set up a business bank account to keep your finances in order.
Another crucial piece of admin is your SLA – your service level agreement. This is a contract that you and your clients agree to and sign before commencing your relationship. This covers important aspects such as payment, cancellations, holidays, security, and anything you want to include regarding dog behaviour, welfare etc.
Equipment & Transport
Make sure you factor in all the bits and bobs you are going to need on an ongoing basis. Speak to your accountant as most of this can be tax deductible. Some things you will need are: clothing and gear for all weather (branded?!), leads, collars, water bowls, poo bags, treats, dog and human first aid kit, lights, a battery pack for your phone, a bag, sanitiser and wipes, your business cards, and a bag to put it all in. You might also want to invest in a portable dog shower, and multiple towels and blankets.
Transport is an important one. If you don’t drive, not only do you limit your clientele but also the number of dogs and variety of walks you can offer. Many dog walkers switch out their cars for an estate vehicle, pickup or van. You can get custom accessories for your vehicle too which can make your life a lot easier!
Branding and Marketing
The fun bit! You’ve got all the paperwork done; you’ve now earned the right to get your social media pages set up. Facebook and Instagram are the obvious choices, but TikTok is also a firm choice to attract a younger clientele. New websites can be way beyond the budget of a humble dog walker, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be seen on Google. Google is undoubtedly the most utilised search engine, with 90% of all searches beginning here. See our blog How to boost your dog business for free for some easy-to-follow advice on the basics of Google.
Don’t forget about traditional marketing too – you’ll be amazed how many people will approach you when you’re out on walks when you get going. Don’t forget, you are the very best representation of your brand, so brand your clothing and vehicle with your logo to portray the professional you are.
Of course, Wooflinks is also on hand to give you the boost you deserve for being brave and setting up on your own. Our purpose is to give people like you the access you deserve to your target market and all the help you need to set up. By creating an online community of dog loving business start-ups like yours, as well as a truly all-encompassing website for everything dog, we are in the best position to get your business out the starting blocks and progress you on your journey as a new dog business owner. Find out more here
