Seven Tips for a Successful Dog Walking Business
Photo Credit: Emma Seiwell
Dog walking has become an increasingly competitive business, especially for students looking for a convenient way to make extra money. Becoming a dog walker is as simple as signing up on the apps Wag or Rover, building a profile and passing a background check.
What was most appealing to me about it is that you can update your availability at any time on your profile calendar. There was also the fact that I was getting paid to play with dogs - something I would happily do for free.
As a college student with an unpredictable schedule and a love for dogs, this was the perfect part-time gig for me during the school year. While it may seem like a low-pressure job, watching a stranger’s dog is a huge responsibility and there are certain precautions and steps you should take to make sure the dog gets the exercise it needs while staying safe.
Here are a few tips I’ve come up with based on my years worth of experience walking and watching dogs:
Avoid other dogs.
There is no way to know how the dog you are walking or the other dog will react. It’s best to just avoid these interactions.Be aware of what’s on the ground.
Keep an eye out for trash, broken glass or anything the dog might try to eat or cut themselves on. Make sure they’re not eating anything they’re not supposed to.Bring dog treats.
You never know when you might need a treat to bribe the dog to keep walking. In my experience, bulldogs would rather not walk at all. Some dogs can be pretty stubborn but treats will help motivate them to keep moving.Bring water.
On hot days it’s very easy for dogs to overheat. Because they sweat through panting they quickly get dehydrated. It’s a good idea to bring a water bottle and something for them to drink out of if your walk is over a half hour.Bring bags.
Not only is it just common courtesy to pick up after your dog, but in New Jersey, you could be fined up to $250 if you don’t.Make sure your phone is charged.
With both Wag and Rover, the app will track your path and duration of your walk. Although tracking will continue working even after your phone dies, it’s important to have a charged phone to send photos along the way, track the dog’s activity and to end the walk and send a report when done.Be communicative.
Be prepared to contact the owner, whether it’s about home access or in the case of an emergency. Sending pictures and leaving a detailed report on how the walk went comforts the owner and shows them that you care. By communicating and building a relationship with clients, you increase your chances of getting regular walk requests from them.
Photo Credit: Emma Seiwell