It can be frustrating to search for a job. The process of building a resume, narrowing down prospective employers and the interviewing process can be frustrating. If you are enthusiastic about pets and enjoy a challenging and rewarding career, then you should consider becoming a professional dog walker or pet sitter. The pets will do the hoops for you unless you are sitting or walking animals from a circus.
Start with pet-sitting. You can get your foot into the door in two different ways. You can either join a well-established agency, or you can train with someone who is looking to pass on their jobs to another person. You can also start your pet-sitting business.
Both options are not without their pros and cons. You’ll have a boss and possibly less money if you work for another person, but also you won’t be doing all the hard behind-the-scenes tasks such as finding clients, communicating with them, and handling problems when they occur. You only have to show up when you promise. No more “I won’t get out of bed if I earn less than $10,000 a week” like Linda Evangelista the Canadian supermodel. Be reliable, especially when you need to be.
You need to establish a good reputation if you decide to go out on your own. You can also get your friends to use your services by bullying them. Advertise on Craigslist and veterinary bulletin board, as well as distribute fliers in your town. You may have to wait a while before you see results, but the more effort you put in, the greater the reward.
No matter which route you take, the pet-sitting experience is as much about your client as it is the pet. Remember that when you meet a client you are letting them into your home, and they have trusted you with their pet. Respect each animal and client. Take the time to learn about the animal and be yourself. It may take some time for the animal to adjust to you.
Take notes and listen carefully if the client wants you to come to their house. Do everything possible to ensure that the client feels comfortable. Make sure that dog-walking is included in the contract if they own a pet. This can often lead to regular work as a dog walker.
Never limit your services to pet-sitting. In big cities, where most people are busy working and making money during the day, dog walking can be very profitable. Dog walking may also lead to other pet-sitting opportunities.
You will be able to enter private residences when you do dog walking and pet sitting. It does not mean that you are allowed to throw parties and make yourself comfortable. Don’t drink their alcohol. Respect all areas you’re allowed to enter and keep them looking as they did when you first walked in. This is common courtesy.
You will love your new job. Your new career will bring you some amazing four-legged friends (and feathered, scaled and even scaly or feathered ones).