January is here, which means it’s Dog Walking Month! Whether you're already working as a dog walker or pet sitter, or you're considering launching a business, this month is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and grow your knowledge. As a professional in this field, your responsibilities go far beyond walking dogs or feeding pets; you're entrusted with their well-being, health, and happiness.
The Role of a Professional Dog Walker and Pet Sitter
Being a professional dog walker or pet sitter means taking on more than just the fun parts of being with animals—you also have essential responsibilities. Unlike pet owners, professionals must ensure that the 5 Animal Welfare needs are met for every dog or pet in their care. This includes providing the right diet, appropriate housing, ensuring the animal's health, allowing for natural behaviours, and making sure they are protected from pain, suffering, injury, and disease.
Additionally, professionals must handle insurance, follow specific instructions from clients, and store client data securely. While owners may only need to care for their pets, professionals juggle multiple clients, ensuring each pet’s needs are met while managing their business efficiently. Understanding how paid-for animal services differ from ownership is crucial to success.
First Impressions Matter
Establishing Trust with Clients
The first impression you make with a client is pivotal. Being professional, reliable, and knowledgeable will go a long way in securing trust. When meeting a new client, be sure to present yourself well—wear appropriate attire, keep your communication clear, and demonstrate your knowledge about animal care.
This initial meeting is also the time to gather all the relevant information about the pet. Details like the animal’s health history, veterinary contact information, feeding and exercise routines, and emergency contact details are essential to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to ask about the pet’s likes, dislikes, and any behaviours to be aware of, such as anxiety triggers or health risks. In our Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Course, we teach you how to design forms to record this vital information, whether using paper-based or digital formats. This not only keeps you organised but ensures you meet each pet’s specific needs.
Minimizing Risks in the Job
Safety First
Working as a dog walker or pet sitter has its risks, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and the animals in your care. Lone working can be dangerous, so always carry a fully charged mobile phone, use a tracker, and share your schedule with a trusted person. Proper footwear is a must to prevent slips, trips, and falls, and don’t forget your first aid kit—both for yourself and the dogs.
When walking a dog, consider potential risks like traffic, other dogs, and the dog's behaviour. The number of dogs you walk at one time should comply with local authority guidance, and it’s important to complete a dog walking risk assessment to ensure the safety of both the dogs and yourself.
The Importance of Legal Compliance
Know the Law
As a professional, it is vital to understand the legal landscape surrounding dog walking and pet sitting. There are various laws and codes of practice that govern these services, including the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, and regulations like the Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015. Additionally, being aware of the DEFRA codes of practice and local authority regulations for walking multiple dogs is essential for staying compliant.
Recognising Breed-Specific Behaviours
Understanding Dog Behaviour
One of the keys to success as a dog walker or pet sitter is knowing the breed-specific behaviours of the dogs you care for. Different breeds have different needs—some dogs, like those in the Working Group, require lots of physical activity and mental stimulation, while Toy breeds might prefer short, gentle walks. Our qualification helps you identify the 7 UK Kennel Club Breed Groups and recognize the common behaviours associated with each. Understanding these traits will allow you to tailor your services to each dog, providing an experience that keeps both the dog and the owner happy.
Ready to Take Your Pet Care Career to the Next Level?
If this Dog Walking Month has inspired you to grow your business or refine your skills, now is the perfect time to enrol in our iPET Network Dog Walking and Pet Sitting qualification. This course will equip you with the knowledge, confidence, and professional edge you need to excel in the pet care industry. You will learn everything from risk management and legal compliance to breed-specific care and client communication, all while gaining a recognised certification.
Celebrate Dog Walking Month by investing in your future—sign up today and take your first step toward becoming an industry leader!