Pets News
And they are back, that small canine, Abbey and the feline Charlie!
Abbey: Hey Guys! Good to see you again!
Charlie: Well we have no one to interview
Abbey: aaaawwwwwwww
Charlie: So we have an article for you...
Abbey: ITS... WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A DOG WALKER!
Charlie: Lets Go!
A dog walker isn't someone who just 'walks the dog'. A dog walker is a professional who is in tune with canines and values the relationship between humans and animals.
Dog walking can be a very rewarding career, says Toni Bibby from T. Bone's Dog Walking & Pet Care in Sydney. Toni started her business two years ago after a long career in the corporate world.
"I wanted to offer a high level of care to pet owners and their pets as I never trusted anyone to step into my shoes and care for mine," says Toni.
It's the best decision she could have made to be financially self-sufficient and to be able to work well over her retirement years.
"They say 'dreams don't come true' - well, mine have," she adds. "I have been an advocate pet owner myself for 25 years, although I currently don’t have my own as I have adopted all my client pets and do a lot of stay-overs at their homes."
For Toni, each day brings the unexpected, the feeling of freedom and opportunities to expand into pet sitting and minding.
"Every day is like a working holiday," she says. "Being a substitute mum to so many four-legged kids, having the joy of getting to know each pet's personality and behaviour, providing and protecting. You're rewarded with wonderful memories for life."
Dog walking also offers opportunities to meet new people and witness the bond between pets and their owners. It's especially rewarding when you help regain the trust of rescue animals adopted out by caring animal lovers, she says.
"I enjoy knowing I am being trusted to maintain a pet's routine and make a pet's day special even for a short time," says Toni. "I have developed laugh lines and knowing that being around animals every day can extend your life expectancy ...why wouldn't you love this job?!"
Dog Walking Is Not All Play
It's not all 'fun and games', though, when it comes to running a successful dog walking business. You need to have an ABN (Australian Business Number) with the Australian Taxation Office, public liability insurance and income protection insurance.
"Having a second source of income whilst setting and establishing the business within the first nine to 12 months is crucial," she says.
Consider setting a business plan if your business will be more than a hobby, says Toni. Establish how much capital you will need to start your business - a good accountant can help you with this. A Certificate IV in Small Business Management provides the tools and knowledge to run a business successfully.
Running a successful dog walking business also involves building and maintaining a loyal client base. Promote your business name through networking with other pet businesses, 'word-of-mouth' marketing and referrals. Having a certificate in pet first aid and animal behaviour will also show you are serious about the safety and wellbeing of animals in your care, says Toni.
Being a member of a pet industry organisation also has many benefits, such as industry specific training, says Toni, who is a member of the Pet Industry Association of Australia and Professional United Pet Sitters.
You need to be organised and develop and maintain a disciplined administration and record/book keeping system.
"Be aware of park rules and regulations," she says. "For instance, a single person can walk a maximum of four dogs. Also, dogs must be kept 10 metres away from BBQs and children's playgrounds. "
And, of course, always scoop the dog waste and dispose in proper bins!
"Dog walkers need to be compassionate, reliable, have a mature and professional approach, but also fun loving with a sense of humour," says Toni. "They also need to encourage and promote quality pet ownership, and be healthy and physically fit to do the walking!"
What do you need before you hit the road? A bag of liver treats, spare leads, water for you and your furry friends, a good pair of sunnies, hat and a slap of good quality sunscreen. And don't forget those poo bags!
Abbey: Okay Guys, I guess we will see you next time!
Charlie: bai bai!
Abbey: What?
Charlie: Its Japanese for Bye Bye...
Abbey: I so knew that.... uhhh so, Later!
Charlie: Sure... BAI BAI!
