The prices of dog walking can range between 5-10 but generally it's about 7-8 per hour walked. There are two types of dog walking, group and solo. Solo walks tend to cost more but group walking is ideally what you want to do. Most people want their dogs walked at lunchtime while they are at work, so that's your peak working hours and you may only get two to three walks (max) in that time and in that time you will earn most of your money for that day, so if you are doing solo walks in that time you are limiting what your income can be.
You'd be surprised how much time is spent traveling, picking up and dropping off dogs, even in a small area. You don't get paid for driving so keep you area of work as small as you possibly can. Here's are some tips about how you can begin a rewarding career as a dog walker.
The best way to prepare for a career in dog walking is to complete training and receive certification. Not only will this teach you the ropes of the business, it will ensure customers that you can be trusted with their canine companions. There are several reputable organizations that train and certify dog walkers. One of the better known dog industry trainers is Dog Tec, which provides education in dog training, walking, sitting and other types of services. Dog Tec holds a number of workshops and talks throughout the United States. The Dog Tec Dog Walking Academy is a four-day intensive training program that teaches participants about dog behavior, health issues, pack management and the in's and out's of starting your own business.
Dog insurance is important for dog walkers, sitters and trainers. If you or one of the pets you are working with is injured on the job, insurance will keep you safe from liability. Reputable dog walker insurance programs include Pet Sitters Associates, Mouer-Foster Kennel Pro, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International. Getting insurance is a critical aspect to starting a dog walking business... don't start one without insurance!
People who don't yet wish to start a dog walking business of their own may wish to work for someone else first. It's almost always better to learn the ropes from another expert, and by working for an established dog walking service, the dog walker doesn't need to worry about insurance, bonding, or even forming company. It's also a good way to meet potential future clients. If someone doesn't have the desire to manage a company on his or her own, it's a great idea to work with someone else. There are far fewer hassles, and the dog walker can focus strictly on walking dogs. In addition, when you work for someone else, you don't have to worry about bringing in new clients either. To find a job, you can visit the website of local dog walkers and send the business owner an email if you don't see a job listing. You can also search on sites like Monster.com and even Craigslist.
Dog walking can be extremely dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.
