If you like being around dogs and also like to work outside then a job as a professional dog walker may suit you down to the ground. As a dog walker you will come into contact with a wide range of breed of dogs, of various sizes, each with their own unique characteristics.
It helps if you know your local area well, this enables you to maximise all the available areas in your locality to walk dogs. Make sure to arm yourself with lots of treats and poop bags whilst you venture out on your travels. Dog walking is not just a summer time activity, so be aware that you may sometimes have to walk dogs when the weather is much colder, or even worse raining or snowing. Make sure you have a wardrobe full of hardwearing weather appropriate clothes and you wont go far wrong.
Walking dogs is a great way to keep fit, buy yourself a pedometer as you may be surprised how many hours you clock up. Good footwear is also a must. Dog walking services have really grown in the last few years, this may be due to an increasing ageing population who are no longer able to walk their favourite companion, or due to double income families being out at work all day.
If you have decided to work for yourself it is important that you advertise your services. start with neighbours and friends, you will be surprised how many offers you may get through word of mouth recommendations. Put up flyers in local stores and veterinary practices. You will need to be organised and good at time keeping, to gain a excellent reputation it is important you turn up at the agreed time on agreed days. Owners of dogs need to have confidence in you, so treating your clients professionally is very important.
You may decide to check out the dogs before you agree to walk them. find out from the owners if they have any particular peccadillo, for instance it is good to be aware if a dog is sociable towards other dogs, even when you have him on the leash. Hopefully the dogs you take out will be well trained and obedient, but remember to take them on the lead and keep a pocketful of treats to reward good behaviour.
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Love Dogs? Become A Professional Dog Walker Credit Picture License: Dogwalker Brasil via photopin cc