Dog Walkers And Pet Owners Are Warned Of The Dangers Of The Rock Salt Used To Grit Our Roads.

Letting strangers into their home alone is a big deal for most people and why dog walkers rely so heavily on recommendations, because if their friend or someone they know trusts you then they are far, far more likely to choose you than someone they know nothing about.

Getting known is the hardest thing. Get nice leaflets made and businesses cards too. While waiting for work you can distribute your leaflets in the area you want to work in, try and make them stand out and not just black text on white paper and keep the information brief and straight to the point.

Don't expect to get flooded with phone calls that night, but don't be disheartened either as many will hold on to the leaflets and keep you in mind if they need a dog walker/pet sitter in the future. Always keep businesses cards on you wherever you are, a conversion with a stranger or while out walking a dog can lead to a potential new customer. Pet shops, groomers, newsagents are ideal places to display leaflets and business cards, post offices, other small business premises should all be looked into.

Regarding advertising friends and family are great assets. Get them to spread the word, they can be invaluable as they can give a personal testimonial for you. I say a good website is also a must, as those who don't know of a dog walker will search for one online, make it look as professional as you can. Make sure you tell potential customers a bit about yourself and what you offer, also make sure you are listed on Google maps and in local online directories. In my opinion stay away from clip-art and the high quality dog pictures taken from the net to make your website, many dog walkers do this and it looks naff and too generic! Once your businesses begins to take off you can then add a gallery and even a video.

Another good method of advertising is to get stickers put on your vehicle if you have one, that way hundreds of people see you every day and it doesn't cost much. I wear hoodies and t-shirts that have my embroidered logo on them.

While walking dogs you will tend to go to dog friendly areas where other people walking their dogs will be - all potential customers, so don't be shy to say hi.

Getting your first phone call email

When you get that first phone call or email find out what services they are after, what area they live in. If you can give them the service they want and they live in your area that you're prepared to go to and they are happy with the price then you can arrange to meet them and get to know their pet before you start working for them. Personally I wouldn't like to enter into someone's home without meeting their dog beforehand. Also you can get to know each other answer any queries they have and show them any documents you want to. Make sure you take down their phone numbers including work, find out if there pet is insured and to what veterinary clinic they are with in case of emergency.

Do exactly as owner requires - no more & no less - do not improvise unless necessary.

Once you've started

You're gonna need a few things when dog walking.