Outreach Ministries: Pet Care Services

Your organization may already have several programs in services for children; but what about the four-legged variety? Many people value their pets as members of the family. Below are some ways to incorporate man’s best friend into your outreach.

• Offer a Dog Walking Service- This is a great program to begin with, as it requires very little time and money to start up. There are various styles of multi-lead dog walking collars and leashes available that will allow three or more dogs to be walked at the same time without becoming tangled in the leash. Acquiring this equipment will be important, as it will reduce frustration and enable you to walk multiple dogs at the same time. Gather a few volunteers who are willing to walk the animals. This is a great opportunity for retired seniors, stay at home moms, and teenagers on school vacation to get some fresh air and exercise. Distribute fliers to businesses that are frequented by dog owners, such as groomers, kennels, pet stores, community animal shelters, and veterinarians. Once word is out about your dog walking service, it shouldn't take long to establish a base of 20 or 30 regular clients.
• Open a Doggy Day-Care- Day-care facilities for dogs are becoming increasingly popular, especially as more and more caring dog owners are realizing the benefits of leaving their beloved dogs at day care with other dogs instead of at home alone while they are at work. Dogs, like people, are social creatures and need contact with people and other dogs to become well behaved and confident. If space allows and neighbors don't mind the barking, you can open at a volunteer’s home. A better alternative is to rent commercial warehouse space and covert it into a dog day care spa, complete with water features, fenced outdoor space, and indoor couches to ensure your clients have all the creature comforts they're used to at home. Current rates are in the range of $15 to $25 per day, with discounts for weekly service.
• Offer a Pet Sitting Service- Lots of people have pets that can't be boarded or left with friends and family when the need arises. The solution is to hire a pet-sitting service to come to their homes and take care of their beloved pets while they're away. Good candidates for the job include pet-loving retirees and students. Market your pet-sitting services through pet-related businesses in your community such as veterinarians, pet supply retailers, dog trainers, dog walkers and pet-grooming services. Remember, many people also hire pet sitters for short periods of times--a weekend away, a night out, or time off for family events. Therefore, you'll need to develop different guidelines for long vs. short-term jobs.

Helpful Links

Dog Owner’s Guide: Walking the Dog - Learn about proper walking technique and equipment.

My Pet Business.Com - Order a DVD that guides you step by step through opening a doggy day-care.

Pet Sitter’s.Biz - Click here for an article with tips on starting a pet sitting business.

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