Insured Dog Walker: Steps To Take For Your Business

If you're thinking of becoming a dog walker, there are a few things you'll need to do to make sure you're insured. Firstly, you'll need to decide whether you want to work independently or for a dedicated business. Either way, it's important to have a good level of fitness and a love for animals. While there are no specific qualifications required, having qualifications in areas such as animal first aid, animal behaviour, or animal care will enhance your professional standing and may allow you to earn more. You'll also need to obtain the necessary licenses and insurance. This typically includes a state driver's license, regional licenses or permits, and liability insurance. The cost of liability insurance for dog walkers varies but generally falls between $300 and $700 per year for $1 million in coverage.

Take animal care courses

Taking animal care courses is an important step in becoming an insured dog walker. While it is not mandatory to have qualifications in this area, it will certainly enhance your professional standing.

There are several independent organisations and colleges that offer courses related to animal care and dog walking. These courses can cover a range of topics, including animal behaviour, animal body language, animal first aid, animal nutrition, dog obedience, disease prevention, leash training, and pet grooming. For example, the International Organization of Professional Dog Walkers offers a four-to-twelve-week online course that provides access to an educator and a downloadable certificate upon completion. Similarly, Dog Walking Academy by Dogbiz provides online and in-person courses that lead to a Certificate of Dog Walking.

In addition to these specialised courses, aspiring dog walkers can also benefit from basic training in animal first aid, such as CPR and first aid administration. This type of training can often be found through local programs offered by organisations or veterinarians, who may charge a fee.

By enrolling in animal care courses, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and reliable care for the dogs in your care. This includes understanding dog behaviour, managing packs, preventing fights, and providing basic first aid. Not only will this enhance your professional reputation, but it will also help build trust with your clients, who are entrusting you with the care of their beloved companions.

Get certified

Certification is not a strict requirement to become a dog walker, but it can be a great way to impress your clients and earn more money.

There are several certifications available for dog walkers, including:

Dog Walker Certificate

The International Organization of Professional Dog Walkers, which is part of the International Association of Professions, offers a four- to 12-week online course with access to an educator and a downloadable certificate upon completion. This course covers various topics, such as dog walking safety, client communication, and handling keys.

Certificate of Dog Walking

Dogbiz's Dog Walking Academy offers both online and in-person courses. Their curriculum includes topics like dog walking safety, client communication, and equipment. Upon completion, graduates can earn the Certificate of Dog Walking.

CPPS-Certified Professional Pet Sitter

Pet Sitters International offers this credential, which is relevant to dog walkers as their profession falls under pet sitting. This certification will enhance your knowledge of pet care and improve your credibility with clients.

NAPPS Certification

The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) has been an industry leader since 1989. Their certification covers a broad range of topics, including pet care, health, nutrition, behaviour, and business development. It also includes a complete pet first aid course. This certification will not only enhance your skills but also provide benefits like increased revenue, more referrals, and liability insurance discounts.

Fear Free Certification for Pet Sitters

If you want to enhance your understanding of dog or cat body language, the Fear Free Certification is an excellent choice. It teaches the benefits of positive reinforcement and the dangers of training methods that involve fear or pain. This course focuses on improving the human-animal bond through trust and understanding animal behaviour.

PSI Certification

The Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification is a widely recognised certification for pet sitters and dog walkers. While it is an exam-only certification, PSI offers a range of industry-leading online courses to support your learning journey.

Get on-the-job training

To become an insured dog walker, you'll need to purchase a dog walker insurance policy. This will cover you in case of damages or unfortunate situations that may arise while you're walking a client's dog.

On-the-job training is a great way to gain the skills and knowledge you'll need to become a successful dog walker. Here are some steps you can take to get valuable on-the-job training:

• Work for dog walking companies or animal care nonprofits: Many dog walking companies offer training programs for aspiring dog walkers. By joining these companies, you can receive supervised training in various aspects of the job, such as feeding animals, transporting them safely, operating equipment, and cleaning up after them. This is a great opportunity to learn the ropes of the business and gain practical experience.
• Pay attention to business operations: During your on-the-job training, don't just focus on the dog walking tasks. Observe and learn how the organisation is run. This includes understanding how to schedule walks, communicate with clients, run promotional campaigns, and manage finances. These skills will be invaluable if you plan to start your own dog walking business in the future.
• Volunteer at shelters or rescue organisations: Volunteering at local dog shelters or rescue organisations is a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience with dogs. You'll learn about dog behaviour, interactions, and care, which will make you more confident in handling your future clients' dogs. It's also a great way to build your resume and show your commitment to the field.
• Join a professional organisation: Consider joining a professional organisation, such as the National Association of Registered Pet Sitters (NARPS), which offers support and resources for pet sitters and dog walkers. They can provide guidance, training, and networking opportunities that will enhance your skills and employability.
• Take on-the-job training courses: While gaining practical experience is essential, you can also benefit from taking courses specifically designed for on-the-job training. These courses will teach you about dog walking and business aspects, such as creating business plans, obtaining insurance, setting fees, and promoting your services.
• Network with established dog walkers: Building connections with experienced dog walkers can be incredibly valuable. They can offer mentorship, advice, and insights into the industry. Attend local dog events, join online communities, or reach out to dog walkers you admire to expand your network and gain valuable on-the-job training.

Remember, on-the-job training is all about learning by doing. Take advantage of these opportunities to develop your skills, build confidence, and establish yourself in the dog walking profession.

Take out liability insurance

Taking out liability insurance is a crucial step in becoming an insured dog walker and starting your own dog-walking business. This type of insurance will protect you and your business in the event of accidents or incidents involving you, the dogs in your care, or their owners.

As a dog walker, you will be responsible for the dogs you walk, and accidents can happen. For example, a dog could bite someone or another dog, or the dog could be injured or escape and be hit by a car. In these situations, liability insurance will cover the cost of any resulting injuries or damages. It is also important to note that if you employ staff, you will need an employer identification number, and they should be covered by a fidelity bond, which will protect you both in the event of any dishonest acts.

The cost of liability insurance for dog walkers varies, but it is generally affordable. In the US, dog walkers spend on average between $300 and $700 per year for $1 million in general liability coverage. Some companies offer insurance for as little as $100.

When taking out liability insurance, it is essential to review the policy carefully. The insurance should outline the number of dogs you can walk at one time, and it may also cover emergency veterinary fees, depending on your agreement. It is also important to be aware of any exclusions or limitations to your policy. For example, apps like Wag! may offer some coverage, but the limits may be low, leaving you financially liable if an incident occurs.

By taking out liability insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that you, your business, your clients, and their pets are protected in the event of an accident.

Get bonded

Getting bonded is an important step in becoming an insured dog walker. A fidelity bond is a form of insurance that will protect you against any loss resulting from dishonest acts by your dog-walking staff. This could include stealing valuables such as cash, jewellery, or electronics from a client's home, yard, garden, shed, or vehicle.

Most business permits are dependent on the licence holder having a bond for this purpose. Being bonded demonstrates to your clients that you value the security of their possessions and are willing to take the necessary steps to protect them from crime.

To get bonded, you can follow these steps:

• Fill out a free online application for a business service bond.
• Speak with a skilled bond agent and supply any supporting documents.
• Turn the bond in to the obligee.

By getting bonded, you can provide your clients with peace of mind and protect yourself and your business in the event of any dishonest or criminal acts.

Frequently asked questions