All above board

Hello,

I am a happy owner of four Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and I do dog walking in my local area as well as other pet sitting.

I have had many enquiries about doggie day care and I am insured to do this, but I do not know if I need licencing. I know that if a dog stays overnight, I definitely need a licence. The owners are providing the dog's own food, if it needs a meal during the day.

I have contacted my local council but am still awaiting a response. I have researched the internet and for some councils you need a licence and for others you don't, so I am very confused.

Hope you can help,

Claire, by email

Any business angels out there?

Hi there, 
My name is Nicola and I'm 20 years old. I'm currently doing a home learning course on Dog walking through Compass Home Learning ( which I found the ad in your magazine!) But I'm confused as how to start the business when I complete my course, and was wondering if you knew of any books or websites that may help me.

Thank you
Nicola Orr

Anyone out there been there and done it able to point Nicola in the right direction? Is it better to buy a franchise or start from scratch?

Hi Lucy,

Owning your own business can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it does involve quite a lot of time and hard work!

Getting qualified in your chosen field is an excellent first step, but that’s really only the start.  You’ll need to do your research with regards to insurance, accounts, VAT, and marketing (to name a few) but there are lots of excellent services out there to help you on your way.

In terms of your chosen industry, have a look at the National Association of Registered Petsitters (www.dogsit.com ).  They have quite a lot of information on their website, and some of it pertains to dog walkers.  Becoming a member of a recognized association is a good idea, as you can give your customers piece of mind that you are insured, abide by a Code of Practice, as well as distinguish yourself from other dog walkers who simply “hang out a sign” and then take on clients.

For business information, you really can’t beat the government’s Business Link service (www.businesslink.gov.uk ). Their website is FULL of essential information, and they also offer a free of charge one on one session with a Business Link advisor in your area.  They can help you with VAT registration (if need be) or you can contact HM Revenue and Customs direct (http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/index.htm). The VAT office has an undeserved reputation in my opinion, as I have always found them to be extremely understanding and very helpful whenever I’ve rung.

Another good place to try is the Free Business Forum UK (http://www.freebusinessforums.co.uk/) which is an excellent resource full of helpful professionals and first time business owners.

Don’t forget to canvass your local pet shop, veterinary office, dog trainers and behaviorists as these groups are constantly being asked for recommendations from their clients. Ask them what they look for in a good dog walker, and then take their advice on board. You may find that they will become a real lifeline when you are ready to grow your business.

Best of luck!
Claire Goyer, The Haselmere Pet Company