Getting Started in your Pet Sitting Business
*Whilst no formal training is needed to start a pet sitting business, it is advisable to get as much experience as you can with pets which you can promote to clients. I have met quite a few veterinary nurses or veterinary receptionists who have given up their previous careers and now run very profitable busy pet sitting businesses.
*If you have no previous animal experience, ask at your local college. They usually offer courses in animal care where you obtain NVQ's 1 and 2. These courses start in September, so be sure to enrol by July.
*It is important to invest some time in education whether through books, workshops or working in animal care (such as at a rescue centre for example) to better prepare you for this important work. Basic courses in business administration may help too as your business grows.
*Look for courses covering topics such as IT, finance, marketing and book-keeping.
*The pet sitting industry is developing rapidly and you may find that there are pet sitters in your area offering a similar service. It is vital that you excel in the quality of care you offer and the extra touches you are prepared to offer (ie free watering of plants, taking out rubbish etc). Find out what services are on offer from local competitors and try to find your own niche.
*Find out what services your local boarding kennels offer and what their charges are. Some boarding facilities now take rabbits and other small pets, not just cats and dogs.
*Use all my pet health and pet care advice as much as you can and once registered with me, you are free to ask my professional advice online. Pet and home sitting is a big responsibility. Not only is the health and welfare of pets in your care a factor, but also the security and safety of a client's home and property. Learning how to properly handle these responsibilities, complete with all the help I offer, will only make you a better service provider.
*As the job of pet sitter is such a responsible one - you are in charge of your clients most treasured possessions - their pets and home, it is vital that you have proper insurance in place. Your insurance costs should be approximately £120 per year. Use specialised insurance according to what services you offer. I recommend:
*Animal groomers, trainers and behaviourists will occasionally run part-time pet sitting businesses to complement their services. Do not see them as competitors, but rather aim to try and work with them and take on some bookings that they do not have time for.
*Join as many local pet clubs or animal societies as you can as owners that breed or show their animals are more likely to leave them in your care if they know you already and feel that you understand the specific need of their pet.
*Many pet sitters are also presenting Criminal Record Clearance documents.
*An excellent reference to supply to future clients are testimonials and character references written honestly by a few satisfied pet owners. If your clients agree to it, I will include these on your web site.
