Category: Pet Business

11:36:34 GMT • 14 January 2025

Dog Theft: How to Prevent your Customers’ Dogs being Stolen

4 October 2021

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

The theft of a pet is a potential nightmare for owners, but for professional dog walkers, sitters and other professionals there’s the added responsibility of the animal in question belonging to someone else.

Sadly the numbers of dogs being stolen has risen sharply in the last few years, with the Blue Cross reporting a rise of 170% from 2019 and 2020.

With those figures being deeply concerning, it’s more vital than ever for pet professionals to ensure they protect their clients’ pets from adding to this unfortunate figure.

About Us

Protectivity is one of UK’s leading online providers of Pet Business Insurance, protecting over 14,000 pet care professionals every year. Our policy extends to include dog walking insurance, pet sitting insurance and dog grooming insurance, as well as protection for 11 other pet care professions.

Why are more dogs being stolen?

The disappointing fact is that pets, in particular dogs, have, and will always be stolen. However during the pandemic there has been a rise in dog ownership, and with the standard supply and demand model, with more prospective owners, the price tag goes up.

That rise in potential profit to be made from dog sales means the most unscrupulous sellers are going that extra mile to ensure they have dogs to make money from.

Owners and pet business operators cannot completely take away the risk of falling victim to pet theft, but there are plenty of things they can do.

Here are some of our top tips…

1. Don’t leave dogs unattended

It should come as first nature to dog walkers and owners but leaving dogs unattended in public spaces increases the chance of you falling foul to thieves dramatically.

That includes leaving dogs tied up outside shops or other businesses, inside a parked car or at the park.

The less time a dog is out of your sight, the less chance there is for the dog to be stolen.

2. Ensure your setting is secure

If your business involves keeping dogs on your premises, or even if you are visiting those of your clients, making sure they are secure is hugely important.

We all know dogs can sometimes take off of their own accord, so it’s worth checking that fences and property boundaries will keep even the most inquisitive dog inside.

By keeping your dogs inside, you can also keep potential thieves out.

3. Watch what you post on social media

Social media can be a great place to showcase your business to potential clients but it also comes with potential risks.

Posting your walks, daily activities or generally marketing your business is good, however there’s also the chance it’ll tell potential thieves where and when there’s an opportunity to steal a dog.

If you must post daily about your dog walks, it’s worth mixing things up to avoid a regular routine that can set you up for the risk of dog napping.

4. Ask that your clients’ dogs have good recall

Letting dogs off the lead when out on a walk obviously gives them an opportunity for a good run to burn off some steam, but it’s always worth ensuring they come back when called.

Should they fail to return on demand it increases the chances of them being snatched by thieves.

Whether you train the dogs yourself, or ask the owners to make an effort to teach dogs good recall, it can increase the safety of the pooches in your care.

5. Invest in a dog GPS system

It might seem an extreme investment, but with the value of certain dog breeds in the thousands, the outlay of a dog GPS system might be money well spent.

There are a number of options on the market, starting from around £50, so if you’ve got a lot of different animals in your care it can be a wise investment.

Should they take off, or worse still, be stolen, a tracker will allow you and the owner to see exactly where they go.

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11:35:27 GMT • 14 January 2025

How To Start A Dog Walking Business

3 June 2021

•

10 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

How to become a dog walker

Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and everyone wants to make sure that their treasured terrier or cherished cockapoo stays fit and healthy.

The only problem is that with people living such busy lives, because of work, family and other commitments, it can be hard for them to find the time to give their dog proper exercise.

But their challenge could be your opportunity. All over the UK, many people are setting up their own dog walking businesses, taking people’s four-pawed friends out on a stroll for a pre-arranged fee.

It can be great fun and an excellent way to keep yourself fit – but it isn’t quite as simple as knocking on your neighbour’s door and grabbing hold of a lead.

Like any business, there are lots of things that need to be addressed to ensure that a dog walking business runs successfully. In this guide, we’ll take a look at all the steps you need to take to develop a successful dog walking business:

Experience is key!

Dogs can be challenging, especially if they’re not familiar with you, and that’s before considering that the temperament of dogs can vary substantially from one breed to another.

That’s why it’s vital that you have good experience of walking different types of dog (and not just your own if you have one!) before you start.

You’ve also got to be prepared for the weather. If pet owners have enlisted your services to walk their dog, they’ll be expecting you to provide that service even if the weather is bad.

Ensuring you have not only the right equipment and clothing, but also the right mentality for all-weather dog walking, is therefore very important.

Once you’re properly up and running, you should find yourself walking multiple dogs simultaneously. While you may feel confident and experienced enough to handle a large number of dogs, it’s worth considering what your realistic and practical limit would be.

Additionally, you may find that a limitation is placed on you by your insurer (read more about insurance below) – many insurers insist on a maximum of between four and six dogs at any one time.

Dog walking laws and regulations

It might seem like walking a dog is a very simple exercise, but when operating as a walking service, there are lots of rules and regulations that you may have to comply with. These include (but are not necessarily limited to)

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs)

PSPOs are put in place by local councils in particular areas to restrict the number of dogs in that space. These are typically local parks or areas where large numbers of dogs may congregate.

Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005

Offences such as failing to clear up dog poo properly or not keeping a dog on a lead fall under this legislation, in places where Dog Control Orders apply. Penalties can reach up to a maximum of a £1000 fine.

Control of Dogs Order 1992

All dogs in public places are required by law to wear a collar that includes the name and address of the dog’s owner. This can be written or engraved, but as a dog walker, you should ensure this information is present before you start each walk.

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

If a dog is considered to be ‘dangerously out of control’, then a criminal offence is being committed by the person deemed to be responsible for its control at the time.

Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953

If walking dogs around farmland or other rural areas, you should always keep them on leads and well away from any livestock. In the case of farmland, dogs must not chase or attack any kind of livestock; in this scenario, farmers are legally entitled to take measures to protect their animals, potentially up to the point of shooting the dog in question.

The Countryside Code

Although not necessarily legally binding, the UK Government’s Countryside Code provides helpful advice for walking dogs in rural areas responsibly. In particular, it advises to always keep a dog in sight or on a lead, ensure that a dog will return when commanded to do so, and to make sure a dog doesn’t stray into an area where right of way doesn’t apply.

Dog walking qualifications – do you need one?

There is no legal requirement to possess any specific qualifications to run a dog walking business. But getting some dog walking qualifications can be helpful: it can give you additional expertise and experience, and can give you some extra credibility when marketing to potential customers. Potential qualifications to explore include:

Animal care qualifications

Credentials that show an aptitude for taking good care of animals – such as animal behaviour or animal first aid – look good on any CV or website.

City & Guilds

There are a range of City & Guilds Technical Competence Certificates available that relate to dog walking. Of particular relevance are the Level 2 certificates in Dog Walking; Pet Sitting; and Animal Health, Husbandry and Handling; and the Level 3 certificate in Animal Nutrition.

Dog-specific qualifications

A variety of different bodies offer their own courses and certifications aimed at improving the standards of dog walking and animal care, including those at the National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers, and Think Dog.

Cost and finance considerations

There are plenty of things to take into account on the business side of things when starting out as a dog walker.

Formulating a good business plan should form part of your initial work, helping you establish how you’re going to attract and retain customers, how you can stand out from your competitors, and how you’ll operate day-to-day.

The business plan should also consider any costs you may incur in your operations, in particular around transport.

In bigger cities, it may be possible to use public transport to travel from one client to another (as long as the dog walking market isn’t already saturated).

However, in most cases, your own vehicle will be needed to get yourself around – and your dogs if you want to travel for walks further afield.

You will also need to make a decision about your business status. Initially, it may make more sense to operate as a sole trader, but if your business grows (especially to the point you start to employ other people) it may be beneficial to register as a limited company with Companies House instead.

Dog walking business administration

There are several other business-related duties that you’ll need to fulfil, both as part of the set-up process, and on an ongoing basis once you’re up and running. These include:

Checks

You will need to undergo and pass a criminal record check if you are to enter the houses of any of your customers, or hold their house keys at any point. This means applying to the Disclosure and Barring Service if you’re in England or Wales, Disclosure Scotland, or AccessNI if you’re in Northern Ireland.

Contracts

A solid contract, along with terms and conditions, are vital for clearly defining what you’ll do in return for payment, and to ensure you get paid. It also gives you valuable legal protection in the event of a dispute.

Accounting

Whether you’re a sole trader or limited company, you’ll still be expected to keep and file accounts for tax purposes. You should set up a small business bank account in order to keep business and personal money separate.

Marketing your dog walking business

Getting your dog walking business noticed is one of the most important parts of the job, and it can be one of the trickiest.

There are lots of different ideas you can pursue, but ideally you need to think of ways that stand you out from the crowd, whether that be through different services you offer, attractive pricing, good qualifications (as mentioned above), or through offers, referrals and incentives.

Then you can put these ideas into practice across a range of platforms and mediums. Don’t neglect the more traditional ways of marketing such as leaflets, placing adverts in the local paper or good old word of mouth – these marketing materials may be low-tech but they can still be very effective.

Then of course there’s social media (especially including videos), which should have a clear focus on driving interest towards people making bookings or enquiries, ideally through your website.

A website is essential but it doesn’t have to be overly complex: a few pages explaining who you are, what you do and what stands you out as the best choice gives customers all the information they need to know.

To take your marketing to the next level, consider the ways you can join the dots of all your marketing methods together and build a brand.

In the same way that big businesses have logos, imagery, colour schemes and a tone of voice that makes them instantly recognisable, you can apply many of the same principles on a smaller scale. If you can get these key communication skills right, then your business will be the first one that people think of when they decide to find a dog walker.

Obtain dog walking insurance

Like the qualifications, dog walking insurance is not a legal requirement, but we strongly recommend you take out a policy for a host of reasons.

Firstly, you never know what may happen to you or the dogs that you walk when you’re out and about. Dogs can jump out in front of people, cyclists or cars; they can attack other dogs or cats; their leads can trip up other people (or yourself if you aren’t careful!) – and that’s just three of the things that can happen.

Ensuring that you’re protected if you’re unable to work for whatever reason, and that you can cover any claims arising from injuries or accident damage, including any vet bills incurred.

Exploring public liability insurance and ‘Care, Custody and Control’ cover can ensure that both you and your business are protected, whatever the future may hold.

At Protectivity, we provide a host of dog walking insurance policies so that you can start your new business with confidence. Take a closer look at dog walking business insurance today, and find a wide-ranging policy at a price that suits you.

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11:33:28 GMT • 14 January 2025

Dog grooming: Avoiding Injuries and What to do When They Happen?

26 April 2021

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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When you mix sharp equipment and unpredictable pets, accidents and injuries can happen. Even if animal safety stays at the top of your mind and you always take necessary caution, dog grooming activities often pose potential risks. In this blog, we will discuss ways to help prevent them from happening whilst you conduct your dog grooming services.

About Us

We’re one of the leading providers of insurance for pet businesses and offering a variety of tailored products such as Dog Grooming Insurance.

Brush and Clipper Burn

If your dog has long hair and requires repetitive brushing in the same area, whether there are tangles or matting, it can cause burns, especially to sensitive skin.

Similar to brush burn, razor burn happens when a dog is clipped very close to the skin. Sometimes this is caused by a dull or hot razor after shaving through thick matted or pelted hair.

According to the British Dog Groomers’ Association, the first thing that is recommended is to take the dog to the vet to ascertain the cause of the burn. They will probably prescribe an antibiotic ointment to soothe it and prevent further irritation or infection. If the dog is particularly interested in agitating the rash, you can also advise the owner to use an Elizabethan Collar.

Nicks and Scrapes

Small cuts made by scissors or clippers can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most common are; when a dog is very jumpy or wiggly, when a dog’s skin is thin or when a dog has tight matting or is pelted, or if there are hidden warts, scabs or moles.

Matted hair, which is another common reason for cuts and scrapes is often built under armpits or between toe webbing. Even groomers find it hard to determine where the hair ends and the skin starts. So, asking pet owners to brush their pet regularly and book their grooming appointments every 6-8 weeks will help prevent a majority of these issues.

It is always advisable to check with the owner if the dog has any warts, scabs or moles, so that cutting them is avoided.

As a dog groomer, it can be scary knowing that you nicked or scraped a dog, but in most cases it is nothing to worry about as the wound will heal quickly and, as long as you ask the owner to keep it clean, the dog will stay happy and healthy. Of course, for bigger cuts it is highly recommended taking the dog to the vet.

Ear Plucking Irritation

Ear plucking is when a groomer pulls the hair out of a dog’s ears as excessive hair normally blocks the flow of air that keeps the ear canal dry, traps dirt and causes matting.

This procedure normally triggers irritation and discomfort to dogs especially when attempting to pluck hair around sensitive areas.

Plucking the hair from the ear canal is a disputable topic in the dog grooming world. Some dog groomers claim that they see more ear infections in dogs that get their ears routinely plucked, while others claim just the opposite.

Whether to pluck the dog’s ears or not will depend on their individual circumstances, however, remember to remind dog owners that ongoing ear care is important for pets that suffer from ear infections.

Cutting the Quick and Broken Nails

Another common dog grooming injury that occurs, both at home and with professional groomers, is the cutting of the quick on a dog nail.

Cutting the nail too short looks like the most horrific injury with a lot of blood, but it isn’t always quite as bad as it seems. Dogs have lots of blood vessels stored inside each nail, and routine nail trims will help them recede and make the nails safely shorter.

Styptic powder is the most common and efficient way to stop a dog’s nail from bleeding. It’s what vets and groomers use to treat minor cuts as well.

If a dog in your care suffers any of these injuries the key when dealing with them is to stay calm. Having a first aid kit on hand is essential.

You can find out what to include in your dog first aid kit from our blog here. Or if setting up a dog grooming business is a long-term ambition of yours, here are some important things to keep in mind: What To Remember When Becoming A Dog Groomer.

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09:54:07 GMT • 14 January 2025

Do Pet Sitters Need Insurance?

26 August 2020

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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It is strongly advised that anyone in the UK who is running a professional pet sitting business should take out pet sitting insurance. This advice should also be considered by those who are pet sitting on an amateur basis.

Professional pet sitting is considered a relatively low-risk activity, but the risks that can present themselves for the person who is responsible for a clients’ pet(s), and in many cases the clients’ home, can be significant.

What is Pet Sitter Insurance?

Pet sitter insurance is designed to protect you financially against claims that may arise due to accidents while you are pet sitting. As a pet sitter, pet boarder, or animal minder, you are responsible for the safety of your clients’ animals and their actions while in your care.

What sort of insurance do pet sitters need?

Public Liability

Public liability insurance covers you in the event you are sued by a third party (e.g., a member of the public) for injury or damage to their property. This cover includes the legal costs associated with defending yourself in court, as well as any damages deemed payable.

For example, if a dog in your care damages a third party’s property, your client may hold you liable and ask you to cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Public liability is often the first type of insurance professional pet sitters consider, especially those just starting out.

Employers Liability

If you employ anyone in your pet sitting service, even temporarily or on a voluntary basis, the law requires you to have employers’ liability insurance. This policy protects you against claims made by employees for property damage, injury, or illness that occurs while working for you.

Care, Custody & Control

This is one of the most critical aspects of pet sitter insurance. It provides coverage for your clients’ pets and personal property while they are under your care, custody, or control. This includes pets being transported in a vehicle or pet taxi.

Equipment Cover

If you board animals in your home, you’ll likely use additional supplies such as leashes, toys, and emergency medical equipment. Equipment cover ensures that if your tools of the trade are lost or damaged, you can make a claim to help with replacement costs.

Non-Negligent Cover

Non-negligent cover protects you against accidental loss, injury, illness, or death of an animal in your care through no fault of your own.

For instance, if an animal in your care injures itself and requires treatment, non-negligent cover helps protect you against the associated costs.

What is the cost of pet sitting insurance?

The cost of pet sitting insurance typically ranges from £5 to £6 per month. However, prices can vary depending on the level of cover you choose and the specific risks associated with your business.

While cheaper alternatives may be available, it’s essential to ensure they offer comprehensive coverage for all the scenarios you might encounter as a pet sitter. Paying slightly more for a policy that includes critical protections, such as emergency vet bills and public liability, is often a worthwhile investment.

Typical scenarios you might need pet sitting insurance

Pet sitting involves a variety of responsibilities and risks, which is why having the right insurance is essential. Here are some common scenarios where pet sitting insurance can provide vital support:

Emergency vet bills

If an animal in your care is injured or falls ill, even through no fault of your own, you may be held responsible for covering emergency veterinary costs. For instance, a dog might swallow a foreign object during a walk, requiring immediate treatment.

Damage caused by animals

If a pet you are looking after damages property—such as chewing through furniture, scratching doors, or breaking valuable items—you could be liable for the cost of repairs or replacements.

Injury to a third party

A pet in your care could accidentally injure someone, such as knocking over a passerby or biting a visitor to your home. Public liability insurance covers legal and compensation costs in such situations.

Loss or theft of pet

If a pet escapes or is stolen while under your care, insurance can cover the costs of locating and recovering the animal, as well as any potential compensation claims from the owner.

By protecting yourself against these scenarios, pet sitting insurance ensures peace of mind and allows you to focus on providing exceptional care to your clients’ pets.

Where can I buy Pet Sitting Insurance from?

Whilst several providers may offer pet sitting insurance, it’s important to check whether they provide specialist cover for the typical scenarios you might face. Providers such as Protectivity can offer the specialist cover you need. Look at their reviews to confirm their credibility and ensure they are a trusted choice.

Get your Pet Sitting Insurance today

Now you know what it is you need; you are all set to purchase your Pet Sitting Insurance. At Protectivity, we can provide all the above in one comprehensive policy.

Use our quick quote system to get your complete Protectivity Pet Sitting Insurance cover in just a few minutes.

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. Our extensive product offering includes pet business insurance, hairdressing insurance, gym insurance and insurance for personal trainers.

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12:36:39 GMT • 20 January 2025

What to Remember When Becoming a Dog Groomer

24 October 2019

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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Setting up a dog grooming business might be a long-term ambition of yours but there are some important things to keep in mind when starting a new business venture in dog grooming.

About Us

We’re one of the leading providers of insurance for pet care professionals and offering a variety of tailored products such as Dog Grooming Insurance.

Suitability

There are several parts of the job to consider when assessing if it is the right job for you. You need to consider that you will be working on your feet all day and so need to be sure that you are comfortable doing this.

You will also need a certain amount of confidence as you might need to deal with difficult or anxious dogs. Previous experience of handling dogs would be a distinct advantage, even if it is only as a dog owner.

Also consider that you are likely to be working alone most of the time, although you will of course have company in the form of your canine friends!

Qualifications

You don’t need any qualifications to become a dog groomer, however dog owners are always likely to look more favourably on you to provide a great service for their beloved pet if you are able to state that you have qualifications and of course, experience.

Get in touch with your local college who will be able to give you more information about qualifications that you can study for. Gaining a certificate in dog grooming can only be positive when you are trying to recruit new clients.

Locations

You can operate your business from a salon which has the benefit of space and a fixed site where you might get walk in enquiries. However, you also need to consider the overheads that you will need to pay to run the venue.

Costs include rent, electricity, water, gas, insurance, maintenance etc. Some dog groomers run their business from a room in their house. This has the advantage of providing a fixed premise without hefty overhead bills. But this isn’t always possible as you may not have this space available.

The alternative is that you can provide a mobile service offering dog grooming in a clients home. This has the benefit of significantly reducing the impact of the cost of overheads and enables you to provide treatments in an environment where the dog feels comfortable. You need to consider that you will need to be able to transport your equipment between clients.

Experience

The more experience you have, the better the service that you can provide for your client and their pet. Practice on your own dog or on a friend’s to gain experience in dealing with dogs of different breeds and sizes. Then, when you do a wonderful job ask your friends and family to recommend your services!

Insurance

Public Liability insurance is a minimum requirement when you run your own business and this will cover you for injury or damage to third parties or their property, which may be important if your grooming business travels to client’s houses.

Care, Custody and Control cover will offer protection against the accidental injury, illness or loss of an animal under your care. You should also take out a policy covering any specialist equipment that you use as part of your dog grooming business.

Equipment

There are some key items that you will need to purchase to be able to provide a dog grooming service. You need to ensure that all equipment is cleaned and sterilised between treatments. The key items to include in your kit list are:

1. Table – for grooming the dogs on. When making this investment, be sure to find something that suits your needs. Consider that it needs to be big enough for the dogs that you will be treating. It also needs to be the right height for you to be able to stand at to groom the dogs and easy to clean between pets. If you will be providing a mobile dog grooming service, then you need to ensure that the table you get is portable.

2. Clippers – these should be an essential part of your toolkit. It is worth making an investment to get the right clippers ensuring that they are comfortable to hold as well as being easy to maintain and clean.

3. Dryer – Essential for providing the perfect finishing touch, make sure that the dryer you choose is practical and appropriate for the task. For example, a tiny dryer with little output won’t be very useful for a large dog.

4. Brushes and combs – You should have these in a variety of sizes and for a range of hair types as you are likely to be handling many different dog breeds.

5. Nail clippers – these are another essential tool for keeping those nails trimmed and should be practical and easy to use and maintain.

6. Products – Such as shampoo and conditioner are essential. Make sure that you have a range of products available, taking into consideration that some of the dogs that you treat might have sensitive skin.

Pricing

Put a price structure in place considering the range of treatments and size of animal. You might want to offer a pricing structure based on small, medium and large dogs and could offer packages so that clients can treat their pets to a wash and nail clipping for a standard price.

Additional treatments such as teeth descaling and ear cleaning could be offered at an additional price.

So, keep these considerations in mind when setting up your dog grooming business to ensure that you have everything in place that you need.

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09:48:45 GMT • 14 January 2025

Your Guide to Becoming a Qualified Dog Trainer

25 June 2019

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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If you love dogs (and their owners!) then becoming a dog trainer could be the perfect job for you. There are several different types of dog training careers from running puppy classes for people and their pets to training guide dogs or medical support dogs for specific tasks.

There are some key skills required to be a successful dog trainer:

Good social skills
Understanding of behaviour in dogs
The ability to develop skills and techniques
Understanding of the legal aspects
Independently accredited qualification

About Us

We’re one of the leading providers of insurance for pet businesses, and we offer a variety of tailored products such as Dog Walking, Pet Sitting Insurance and Dog Grooming Insurance policies.

Understanding of Behaviour in Dogs

This is essential if you are going to be a dog trainer. When training a dog, they are required to listen, communicate and remember and so you need to be able to understand how they do this and what motivates each dog that you work with.

This knowledge can be gained through training courses, books and of course, experience, as you work with more and more dogs.

Develop Skills and Techniques

Take time to learn different skills and techniques, practice them and build up experience that will enable you to become a successful and confident dog trainer.

This confidence is an important part of working with dogs as they will respond better to a confident trainer, but it will also be important in developing relationships with existing and new clients who are looking to put their trust in you.

Understanding the Legal Aspects

There are several laws which exist which are important for you as a dog trainer to understand. These include the Animal Welfare Act (2006) and Dangerous Dogs Act (1991).

You can see more information on this on the Kennel Club website.

It is also important to understand the legal aspects of running a business, such as data protection.

Independently Accredited Qualification

Formal qualifications are not necessary to become a dog trainer but will always help to set you apart from other dog trainers and to attract new clients. A good starting point is the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, a voluntary organisation and whose members are accredited.

There are a range of courses available either at colleges or through distance learning, all of which will give you the training and qualification to start your career as a dog trainer.

Another essential aspect is the need for adequate insurance cover. So, should something happen to an animal, a member of the public or their property as a result of your business actions you will have peace of mind that you are protected.

So, you can be covered if a third party makes a claim against you if their dog has an accident and suffers an injury during one of your classes.

Cover can also include your equipment in event that it gets damaged at a training session.

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09:35:28 GMT • 14 January 2025

What to Include in Your Dog Walking Service Agreement

28 March 2019

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

As a dog walker it is important to know what your clients expect of you. While a written contract between your business and your clients is not a requirement, it can be of huge benefit to the running of your enterprise.

The thought of writing up a contract can be a daunting one. In truth though, you don’t need to be a legal expert to put together a dog walking agreement between you and your client.

When starting a dog walking business it’s important to draw up a dog walking service agreement and ask each client to complete it.

Here’s what we suggest you include in your agreement…

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We’re one of the leading providers of insurance for pet businesses, and we offer a variety of tailored products such as Dog Walking, Pet Sitting insurance and Dog Grooming Insurance policies.

Service outline

In summary, this is where you will outline what the client is paying you to do. Have sections for the number of walks you are being asked to complete, how far they should be, and the times you are expected to carry them out.

It’s also wise to get the price that the client will be charged penned down in this section too. This avoids any unwanted confrontation if a client disagrees on the bill that they are presented with.

Dog specifics

Meeting a dog before agreeing to walk it is always advised. That way you, as a pet care professional, can get to know the animal and any of its likes and dislikes. While this is good, it always pays to have this information down on paper within the walking agreement beforehand.

In this section of the contract, document the name and breed of the dog plus any medical conditions it may have. Have in writing if it is taking any medication so you have this to hand in the event of an emergency.

As well as medical issues, asking the owner to note any behavioural traits is also wise too. Ask whether the dog is good with fellow canines, whether it will chase animals and whether the dog has good recall. This way you mitigate some of the risks of an incident occurring whilst walking.

Emergency protocol

Reducing the risk of an incident is one thing, but knowing how to react when something goes wrong on a walk is another. Ensure that on any contract you have with your client you document who to call if the animal is injured or injures another dog or person.

Also establish the protocol you and your client wish to take if the animal requires veterinary treatment. Do you wait until you’ve made contact with the owner before taking a dog to the vets, or is the decision based on your judgement?

Making a note of the dog’s microchip number is also a great idea too. In the event that the animal is lost whilst walking, having this might come in handy in identifying it if discovered at a later date.

Other rules to follow

You should also outline in your contract a few other house rules and regulations you or the owner wish to impose. For example, do you have permission to walk the dog off-lead? If anything were to happen when the dog was off-lead and it transpired the owner had not agreed to it, your dog walking business could be held liable.

Many professional dog walkers like to take photos or videos of their walk to share on social media. This is a great way to show clients the service that you can provide. And while it’s unlikely to be an issue, it’s worth obtaining the permission of the dog owner before posting on Facebook or Twitter.

And lastly, make sure you include some rules about cancellations in the contract. What happens if a client cancels your services at the last minute? It could leave you with empty time that might have been filled with other clients. Do you want to include some sort of cancellation fee in your agreement?

You don’t need to include legal jargon in your agreement, it’s just worth covering every base. If things were to go wrong that were covered in the contract it doesn’t necessarily mean you are absolved of any legal liability though. That’s why it’s always important to hold appropriate dog walking insurance policy. With cover in place you are protected if the dog were to be injured, lost, or caused injury to someone else or their dog.

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09:33:24 GMT • 14 January 2025

Dog Walking Safety and Protecting Yourself

8 March 2019

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4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

As a pet business professional the well-being of the animals entrusted to you should be number one priority. However, that doesn’t mean you should neglect your own safety when dog walking.

It’s important to take a number of steps to give yourself the best possible chance of not suffering an injury whilst carrying out your business activities.

Safety starts at home

Dog walking safety starts before you’ve even left home. Good preparation is the foundation of avoiding accidents when caring for your canine clients.

A recent guide introduced by the Pet Industry Federation includes the following advice:

“The dog walker should meet with the dog prior to taking them for a walk so that the walker can become familiar with the dog’s needs and that a pre-assessment can be made to evaluate their personality and behavioural characteristics.”

Not only will a pre-walk meeting allow you as a professional dog walker to make a judgement of how best to protect the dog, it will also allow you to protect yourself.

For example, a on-lead only walk for an animal that has a history of chasing other animals will reduce the chances of running away and causing itself an injury. On the other hand, if on a pre-walk assessment you discover that certain situations triggers an aggressive response in the dog you can either decline to walk that dog or ensure you avoid putting yourself in such a situation.

Other dog walking injuries

It’s not just aggressive dogs that can see dog walking injuries occur. A study in the USA discovered that between 2004 and 2017 injuries to dog walkers over the age of 65 had more than doubled. The most common injury cited in the report was a broken hip, with injuries to an upper limb following in second.

However, being younger than 65 obviously doesn’t preclude dog walkers from suffering an injury.

Protectivity’s Dog Walking Insurance has an additional Personal Accident benefit which can provide a lump sum payout should a walker suffer an injury whilst carrying out professional dog walking activities.

Under that benefit, we have seen a number of claims from our protected walkers. These have ranged from broken legs after being knocked down by runaway dogs (the most common injury), to thumb injuries caused by a lead, to trapped nerves.

Taking out suitable pet business insurance can ensure that if you were to suffer a serious injury whilst walking, you wouldn’t face serious financial implications of not being able to run your business.

Walking precautions

There are other things that dog walkers can do to ensure their own safety whilst on walks.

Firstly, and perhaps most obvious, is to ensure that you always carry a fully-charged mobile phone on you at all times. That way, if you come into any trouble whilst out on a walk, particularly if you are in a more rural location, you can phone for help.

Dog walking apps are becoming more and more common and are another great way to ensure your safety whilst dog walking. Not only will you be able to manage your business via these apps but you can also set a tracker. That way your clients will know exactly where you are when walking their dogs, and therefore will have an insight to your location should you get lost or injured.

In conclusion, ensuring your own safety whilst walking dogs is as important as protecting the dog’s. By undertaking these simple steps you can ensure you put yourself at as little risk as is possible when running your pet business.

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09:31:51 GMT • 14 January 2025

5 Great Apps for Professional Dog Walkers

5 February 2019

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Whether you’re a professional dog walker, groomer or trainer, using mobile apps can have a beneficial impact on the way in which you run your business.

From management software, to marketing help, to something that’s just a bit of fun, there are apps to fill all of your operational needs.

We’ve picked out five apps pet business owners and dog walkers in particular shouldn’t be without.

Tractive Dog Walk – Cost: Free

While Strava, is the go-to tracking software for cyclists and runners, Tractive Dog Walk is the one if you’re exploring with a canine companion.

With GPS tracking, you can keep tabs on exactly where you’ve walked for both your own benefit and that of the dog’s owner. A handy extra feature is the ability to share photos from your walks and the locations they were taken with the pooches ‘parents’.

iFootpath – Cost: £1.99

Though not exclusive to dog walkers, iFootpath is an app that those heading outdoors with their (or someone else’s) pooch should not be without. Whether you’re looking to change up your routine, or you’re branching out into a new location, simply input your postcode and iFootpath with throw up a number of great walk options.

Users are presented with photos, terrain guides and the option to add a walk or two of your own. A great choice for those who don’t have a set number of walks planned out already.

Scout – Cost: Free

There are plenty of apps out there that can help you plan your schedule and track your appointments. Where Scout stands out is that is has been designed specifically for pet care professionals.

Business owners can add and move appointments, adding specific notes about the dog’s requirements along the way. If you employ any staff, users can even assign a staff member to that particular walk. And for that added special touch, dog owners can be messaged via the app, and can also track where their precious pooch is at all times when with their walker.

Wave – Cost: Free

Once you have attracted all of those clients and their dogs, walkers need a way of managing the payments being made to them.

Wave is a great invoicing and accountancy web tool designed for small businesses. You can not only issue invoices via the system, but users can also add Smart Pay by Wave to their website, allowing visitors to pay for dog walking or grooming services without the need for generating an invoice.

With payroll options and receipt tracking software, this initially free tool is great for your pet business.

Puppr – Cost: Free (many in-app purchases)

Not every dog you walk will be the most well-behaved, and sometimes a little extra training wouldn’t go amiss. With Puppr, users can watch videos of training drills to hopefully improve the behaviour of even the most difficult of dogs.

Led by a previous America’s Got Talent finalist renowned for her dog training tricks, there are few better apps of this kind on the market. While it’s not cheap to get the full range of features, with the ability to learn new tricks, track a dog’s progress as well as having the option for a live helpline, it’s a price well worth paying.

There are many other apps for dog walkers and pet service providers, but these five are some of the highest recommended. Another thing that is very much recommended is Protectivity’s Dog Walking Insurance in order to cover you and your business should something go wrong that not even one of these apps can fix.

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