Are you an animal lover looking for a part-time work opportunity with flexible hours? If so, then you might have what it takes to work part-time as a dog walker. Many people are working extra hours to make ends meet during these difficult economic times. Some are even spreading themselves thin by working two jobs or putting in long weekends and double shifts. Because of the current economic conditions, there is great potential to make extra money by helping people exercise their pets.
Walking dogs is enjoyable part-time work that can help you stay in shape while you make extra money. You will be responsible for providing safe, supervised exercise experiences for all different types of dogs. As a dog walker, you can make your own schedule and work flexible hours to meet customer needs. If you are a savvy planner, you might even be able to walk several dogs simultaneously and really capitalize on the extra money. There is an increased need for dog walking services during holiday and summer seasons. You can offer flexible dog walking options to your clients by accepting payment by the hour, the week or the month. This is a rewarding part-time job that will provide you with meaningful interactions with animals and humans.
Skills Required: knowledge and appreciation of dogs, moderate level of physical fitness, organization and time management skills
Walking dogs for part-time work requires a certain degree of physical fitness so that you can maintain pace with the four-legged friends you will be walking. It is also important to keep a strict schedule and to manage your dog walking time effectively so that you can meet customers’ needs. While you can develop your own schedule and enjoy flexible hours as a dog walker, you also need to be very reliable and consistent.
Startup Expenses: $50-100
The startup expenses for a part-time dog walking business are minimal. Most of your initial costs will be associated with advertising. If you decide to use paid forms of advertising, such as newspapers, then you will need to cover the costs of classified ads. There are also many free resources that you can use to advertise your services. Printed flyers can be posted for free on community bulletin boards, veterinary offices, and local pet supply stores. If you are serious about becoming a professional dog walker, then you may want to consider getting a bond; this will give you more credibility in the eyes of some dog owners.
Monthly Revenues: $200-$500 per month
There is a high demand for pet lovers to help people provide exercise and stimulation for their dogs. Part-time work as a dog walker is a good way to make extra money and you might find that the demand for your services fluctuates slightly from month to month.
Monthly Expenses: $50
As long as you have the energy and enthusiasm, your monthly expenses for your dog walking business will be very minimal. Careful planning can help you reduce the cost of gas. Try to stay local with your dog walking services to reduce monthly expenses.
Time to Break Even: 2 months
Within two months, you should be able to generate enough interest in your dog walking business to break even. If you offer flexible hours and payment terms to your clients, they will be sure to refer friends and family for your dog walking services.
Working as a dog walker is rewarding and fun. You can make extra money while getting your exercise and providing excellent care for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
