Where to find dog walking jobs
Finding dog walking jobs is not quite the same as looking for just any job. Dog walking services rarely turn up in the Job Centre, and owners who want a dog walker or dog sitter don't often advertise. So, you need to be a little more creative to find these jobs. This article looks at ways to do it.
Who needs dog walkers?
Almost every dog owner needs someone to take their dog for a walk at some time or another. Some may need it regularly, others less often. Some may just want their pet walked during holidays or during emergencies. So, although you may be able to get a regular dog walking job, and there may even be an agency in your area offering that sort of work, you are likely to have to take several jobs to make ends meet if that is what you want to do full time.
Job Centre and local papers
These sorts of jobs are rarely advertised, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. Register with the Job Centre, and buy all the local papers, checking to see if anyone wants a dog walker. You may be pleasantly surprised, particularly during the holiday season.
Local vets and other animal orientated places
Individuals who want someone to walk their dog may put up ads at their local vet's surgery, or in pet shops or at animal rescue organisations. It is worth checking these places to see if anything turns up.
Put up your own ads
You are likely to have to put up ads yourself, and this may be the best way to go. Have some cards made, advertising yourself as a dog walker, and quoting your dog walking rates and the prices of any other services, such as dog or cat sitting, which you might want to offer. Vets and pet shops may allow you to advertise for free, as it is a service to their clients. It may also be a good idea to put an ad in your local paper, as this may well be where people will look if they want a dog walker. It is possible to start a self employed business as a dog walker in this way, so give it a try. Good luck!