Dog walking business

GDB2222

Ridgerunner wrote: »

In looking to hire a dog walker, I look for adequate insurance, experience, canine first aid training and a DBS check. If not walking from home I also want to know how my dog will be transported, how long he might have to remain in a vehicle for (some get left for considerable lengths of time) and expect that he remains on lead unless I sign a form giving permission for the walker to let him offlead.

Out of interest, would you rule out a dog walker whose DBS check threw something minor up?

TomokoAdhami

Since childhood, we have pets at home and my dad always took better care of them. He also shared several take care tips with us that's why I also worked as a dog walker a few years ago. Yes, I wasn't running my own business and it was something like a job. However, I found the dog walking a tough job because here we would have to take care of dogs or pets from Monday to Friday or according to your job deal. Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance is a must for dog walking insurance. If you thinking to go with business then I think you will also include medical insurance for employees and property insurance would also be added.

On the other hand, in my opinion, dog sitting could be a better idea than dog walking. Here, you would only need to work as a freelancer and you take care of other's dog for a small period and get good earning. From here you can get a better idea of pet sitting insurance but in my opinion, it would include more coverages because mayhap, you would take care of pets for days and nights. Moreover, Professional indemnity is a new term that is considered essential for a dog walking business but I would suggest you to conduct your complete research before starting this business.

Best wishes.

polgara

This is quite an old thread but I know it’s a popular career path for some.

First thing to be mindful is - walking, pet sitting or boarding? They are different! Boarding in your own home or doggy daycare requires a licence once you reach the £1000 income threshold and some councils charge a small fortune for the licence.

Dog walking as far as I’m concerned should at the very least be DBS checked (you will have the owner’s housekeys), insurance and canine first aid. Setting up doesn’t need to cost a lot but it’s really a business that relies on good word of mouth.