What Things Do I Need To Consider In Starting My Own Pet Care Business?
To all pet lovers out there, you have a chance to turn your hobby into a lucrative business! Did you know that according to The Pet Food Manufacturer’s Association’s (PFMA) Pet Population Report for 2017, 44% of the household in the United Kingdom owns a pet, which accounts to total pet population estimate in the UK to stand at a whopping 54 million! These statistics indicate a massive market for pet care business. over the last 6 years the popularity of pet care businesses have more than doubled, if you’re interested to have your own pet care business then here’s what you need to consider if you want to start a business.
Well Versed in Dealing with Pets
To do well in this business you must love pets! Some knowledge of animal behaviour is essential to know how the pet is feeling. You should be able to guess if the pets are anxious, hungry, and sleepy or when they want to play.
It’s important for you and your team to be aware of administering canine CPR and animal first aid. Having any prior experience or knowledge related to dealing with pets such as veterinary experience will come in handy if you want to start a pet care business.
Choose the Right Region and Neighbourhood as your Target Market
Picking up the right market is one of the most important decisions that you must undertake before starting a pet care business. For most people pets are more than a member of the family, everyone in the family love, cherish and adore their pets particularly if the household has children then their world revolves around their darling pet.
Pet owners will look for a reliable pet care service provider if they need to be away from home for a couple of days or weeks. This is your opportunity to research your target market. When you have plans to invest in a pet care business, consider conducting market research to determine if you’re in the right place at the right time.
Choose a neighbourhood with plenty of families and pets as your target market. If you’re located in London then establishing your business in the North East side of the city is a brilliant idea since it has a large number of pets particularly cats and dogs. If you live near the North East then you can choose to start a home-based pet care business and work part-time just to check the response you get.
Effective Pricing Strategy
After you have researched your target market, the next aspect that needs your attention is developing a pricing strategy that works! Your rates should be based on the number and types of pets you will need to look after.
Base your pricing strategy on the services you will offer and the type of pet. Each pet has different needs, a large breed dog will require different boarding and food options compared to small breeds. Similarly, a cat will need a completely different setup in terms of food, boarding and toys.
Consider the number of hours the pet will spend with you or the number of days if the family is going on a vacation. Ask for vet release forms, and other paperwork because the last thing you want is a pet that isn’t properly vaccinated.
Legal Considerations
Keep in mind the different legal and business considerations of starting a pet care business. Consult with an accounting expert to determine if you should start a limited liability or a sole proprietorship. Stay in touch with the local government and get any permits and regulations that you would require from the county it includes a home based part time business as well. Your business location must follow the guidelines and instructions related to pet boarding and grooming services. Your business location must have open space where the pets can run around in the sun and make the most of their stay with you.
Experience and Training of Your Staff
Having a well-trained staff is nothing short of a blessing for any business and pet care business is no different. In fact, pet care business requires highly trained personnel since they have to deal with different pets of varied temperaments. You will need to invest in training your part-time and full-time employees in pet care and associated services. They must know the different food type’s best suited to each pet based on their breed.
Outline Your Services
Your services are something that will set your business apart from your competition. Choose your service hours including pick up and drop off time for pets each day. Include your business days and if you offer to remain open on Sundays then do mention it in your adverts and promotions on different platforms including social media.
Some pet care businesses offer a pick and drop service for pets if you can invest in a specialised van, it could prove to be a vital selling point for your business. Offer grooming services if you have the relevant experience and equipment. Investing in a pet-grooming course will help you gain a competitive advantage on your rivals.
Advertising your Business
Consider advertising and promotion cost of your pet care business and include a detailed advertising budget in your business plan. Social media One of the most effective advertising platform today. Get pay per clicks and local social media influencers to promote your business. Investing in the internet and digital marketing will go a long way in helping you establish your pet care business as a brand.
You can choose to advertise in local community centres in pet-friendly neighbourhoods. Dog parks are a good choice to promote your services to customers. Get a permit from the local authorities and set up a small booth to advertise your pet care services in a dog park. Office complexes offer another advertising opportunity; place your ads near office buildings with permission from the administration. Concerned pet owners are bound to take notice of your advert for pet care while they are away on business tours.
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Registered address: PolkaDot Consulting Limited, 3rd Floor, 86-90 Paul Street, London EC2A 4NE
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