Tammy Gagne - Start Your Pet-Sitting Business

It is important to know as much as you can about the animals in your care. Perhaps you have family members or friends with pets. Ask if you can spend some time helping them with their animals. Doing so will help you build useful experience. Learn about specific breeds by reading about them. For example, Boxers need more exercise than Basset Hounds. Some cat breeds, such as the Abyssinian, enjoy playing fetch! The more you know about your clients pets, the more valuable you will be as a pet sitter.

Keep the following items on hand at all times so you are ready for your next pet-sitting job:

• cleanup bags
• first-aid kit
• folding bowl
• pet wipes
• slip lead
• full water bottle

Some items, such as leashes and water bottles, will last a long time. But you will need to restock others, such as cleanup bags and pet wipes, from time to time. In the beginning you may not be able to buy more supplies until you have earned some money from your pet-sitting sessions. As you take on more clients, plan regular trips to a pet supply store for this purpose.

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Buy a calendar or planner to organize your schedule. Then youll be able to keep track of all of your pet-sitting appointments.

Businesses must advertise their products and services. Your pet-sitting service will be no different.

One of the most powerful forms of advertising is word of mouth. This is when clients who are pleased with their service recommend a business to their friends.

It is also smart to introduce yourself to other business owners. When pet owners need sitters, they often ask their veterinarians, groomers, or local humane societies for recommendations. Visit these establishments to ask them to mention you if any customers ask for a pet sitter.

In order for word-of-mouth advertising to work, a business must have a good . To build one, you must honor your commitments. Showing up on time and completing all the tasks assigned to you are important in accomplishing this goal.

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Build your reputation through volunteer work. Consider donating some time to your local animal shelter. It is also an excellent way to learn more about caring for animals.

Marketing Materials

Hook clients by passing out materials that advertise your business. But make sure you get your parents permission before you do, as marketing materials often display contact information.

Business Cards

Business cards are great marketing materials. Printing cards on your own will save money. Keep the design simple. Include your name and contact information along with the term Pet Sitter. You may want to add a cute picture or a logo as well. This image will help people associate you with animals. Business cards make it easier for clients to get in touch when they need your services.

Flyers

You can also make flyers to from previous clients. Consider including pull-off tabs at the bottom with your name and phone number. As people discover your flyer, they can then rip off one tab at a time. As soon as all the tabs have been taken, post a fresh flyer with new tabs.

After making some copies, ask local businesses if you may display them. Pet-related businesses are ideal spots for this type of advertising, but any place where pet owners might shop can also help you reach new clients. Some businesses have bulletin boards for people to advertise community events. Always ask permission before adding your card or flyer to one of these spaces.