Pet Sitting is a Serious Profession!

Today has been named World Movement Marketing Day by coach Suzanne Evans. Her business helps encourages entrepreneurs to make a difference and “Help More People”. She released a really inspirational video today that I’d love you to watch at : http://www.MovementMarketingMovie.com

I think that my mission here at Working with Pets and through my work with the APSE fits into the scope of Suzanne’s movement concept.

So what is my movement?

I want to drive a movement that grows the perception of pet sitting as a serious profession. I believe that the pet sitting industry provides:

A valuable service to the world community of pet lovers
A great income and source of fulfillment to the pet sitting business owner
And great jobs to people that want to work with pets.

I’m always saddened to hear from pet sitters who are ridiculed by their peers for what they do. I got this email via Facebook just a couple of days ago:

“I’m getting more criticism from “friends” re the fact that I work as a dog walker. Even at church I heard from sources that there is talk I’m not leading a “productive” life. One friend even stated after I mentioned how difficult it was when I had laryngitis “Ohhh reallly. Why do you need your voice working as a dooooog walllker?”"

The pet industry is thriving and there is no reason for people to have this perception of what we choose to do to earn a living!

I know you agree.

People need and love the services we provide and we as pet sitters and/or dog walkers ensure that pets get the exercise they need, the care and attention they deserve, and a safe loving environment when their owners sometimes can’t be home with them.

When the pet loving public think of pet sitters I want them to think of a profession that:

Is proud of the service we provide
Conducts business professionally and gives excellent customer service every day of the year
Strives to continually educate themselves and pet owners about pet health and care
Gives back to their community by supporting pet rescue and local pet organizations

Because I know that is what we as pet sitters do every day.

So help me raise the profile of pet sitting by displaying the professionalism of your pet sitting business in everything you do and then telling others about your business.

Owning a pet business does not guarantee you success, but it is generally not difficult to set up your own pet business adn many who own pet businesses love the hard working lifestyle and the closeness to pets. You will have to compete with those who may be better trained, may have lower cost structures and those who “pretend” to have your skills and experience when they do not. (eg not all those who advertise themselves as groomers are actually Groomers).

There are also key skills that all dog industry professionals should possess. Here are some of the most critical skills and abilities for those hoping to work with dogs professionally: Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills, ability to recognize behavioral signals.

Animals can be somewhat unpredictable when they are under stress or in an unfamiliar environment, like when they visit the veterinary office or the grooming salon, so it is important to be attentive and stay aware of the animal you are handling at all times.