Pet Care, The Happiest Business
OKC Pets Magazines brings you this article that provides some ideas for starting your own pet business and tips on how to manage it as you go. You can read their magazine online or subscribe to get print editions delivered to your home or office. Once you’ve started your pet business, consider advertising with them to reach one of the largest growing demographics in North America!
Recent research tells us that the pet service market is expected to grow at a rate of more than 5% over a five-year period, which is nearly double the rate of standard GDP. And Common Threads notes that by every metric, the pet care industry, except for dog food, represents one of the most lucrative business opportunities for the near future.
So for anyone with a love for all things furry and four-legged, this is a great time to consider starting your own business in a pet-related field.
Walking Through Your Options
There are many ways for you to get in on the fast-growing pet care business. Find what you love the most, and concentrate on that instead of trying to be all things to all pets. Here are four suggestions to get you thinking.
- Pet Sitting is a great way to begin your own pet care business. Gathering referrals from friends and family who can vouch for your abilities and trustworthiness is step-one since most people looking for sitters will expect that. Educate yourself in pet first aid, obedience, and grooming. Make sure you’re able to physically handle long walks and are strong enough to control large dogs who may pull on a leash if excited.
- Creating Pet Products that are safe, durable, and unique can fill a pet niche market. Americans spend $490 million on pet Halloween costumes and $1.7 billion on pet Valentine’s Day treats. Dog and cat beds and dog seat covers are the popular items followed by toys and toothbrushes.
- Mobile Dog Groomers are fast becoming the norm for pet owners who don’t have the means to take their dog to a groomer or want the convenience of a groomer who can come to them. While it’s not necessary to be certified as a pet groomer, it is strongly advised you have at least 2 years of experience grooming or assisting a professional groomer before undertaking this as your own business.
- Home-made or gourmet dog treats that you can sell on Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, your local farmer’s markets, or through your own website can earn you from $500 to $1,000 a month.
Harnessing Your Business
You don’t have to be limited to only one of these at a time. A DBA (Doing Business As) name makes it easier to branch out into new services if you want to sell products under different names. And if a domain for your business isn’t available, you can market your services under a different name.
Taking your business to the next level will require a strong background in leadership, finance, marketing, statistics, and more. Getting a degree doesn’t have to take the place of running your business. With the availability of online business degree or MBA programs, you can schedule classes around your work hours, allowing you to study at your own pace.
Rewarding Yourself
One of the most important things you’ll do in running your business is getting paid and keeping track of invoices. To make sure you get paid on time, set up clear terms, invoice immediately, and accept multiple forms of payment. An invoice template will allow you to create professional-looking invoices that reflect your brand and include your logo.
There’s nothing more fulfilling or satisfying than creating your own business, especially if it’s one you’re passionate about. Being able to work with other pet owners who share your love of our furry and feathered friends can be the most enjoyable work you’ll ever do.