Dispel negative associations of pet kennels by offering cheerful, sanitary play areas.
If you love animals, starting a pet-related business may seem like a dream job. While owning a pet-related business can be a rewarding but lots of hard work, it's worth exploring various options to determine which might best suit your needs and preferences. The best pet-related businesses to start are those that can start small, slowly expanding as you build your reputation in the pet-owning community and attract a loyal customer base.
Pet Groomer
Groomers bathe, brush and comb pets for owners who don't have the time, space, training or inclination to perform these tasks themselves. You'll also trim nails and help identify skin conditions or ear infections in their early stages so that owners can seek medical attention at the vet's office. Some pet groomers get their start by interning at local facilities or paying for training courses, although this isn't required by all states. If you're not a pet groomer, start your business by contracting with experienced groomers, then paying them an hourly rate, per grooming appointment or renting booths.
Photography
Consumers are used to paying money for professional shots of their children, and pet photographers can tap into the portrait photography market by opening a small photography studio geared toward pet pictures. Pet owners may want portraits taken of themselves posing with their pets or shots of the pet alone. Keep fun chew toys, food rewards and other entertaining items ready to keep pets in a cheerful mood. Your business may also include traveling to off-site locations, such as clients' homes or natural settings, including the beach or hiking trails to get posed and candid shots. Customers may purchase photo prints, framed photos or digital files to print photos at their own cost. Some may pay extra for calendars, coffee mugs or T-shirts printed with photos; outsourcing this service can help reduce overall labor involved.
Pet Trainer
Another pet-related business idea is starting a training company. You may develop your own personal training style or attend workshops and trainings to have a foundational understanding of the trade. There's no formal education route for becoming a pet trainer. Your pet training business may offer group classes in off-site locations, such as a city park, if clients want help socializing their pets with other animals. Or clients with "problem" pets may seek one-on-one training to reduce aggression, learn commands or improve obedience.
Kennels
Some individuals work during the day and can't bear to think of their beloved pet moping around the house with nothing to do. Others may leave town for business travel or vacation and can't leave pets with friends or family members. Another pet-related business idea includes opening a pet kennel. Your location will offer shelter, food and playtime with clients' pets. Customers may pay extra for grooming or pets requiring special care, such as medicine administration. Post webcams around the facility so besotted owners can watch their pets playing with "friends"; customers may also request to have their pet be kept in a private kennel because of shyness, aggression or illness.
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