Paws for Profit: Pet Care Side Hustle Tips—For Any Business

I don't know about you, but 2024 seems like a blur. So, how about we take a slight detour in this edition of The Brand Wagon Sunday Scoop? ??

Why Pet Care Side Hustles Make Great SMBs

Pets bring joy, companionship, and a bit of chaos into our lives. But did you know that pet care side hustles can also teach us valuable business lessons, including tax benefits! ????

Here are #brandwhispering lessons I learned in my first year running pet care as a side hustle?and how they apply to any business.

5 Tail-Wagging Business Tips

1. Consistency is Key

Just like your dog needs regular walks (and sniffs, IYKYK), your business needs consistency to thrive. Whether it’s posting on social media, engaging with clients, or managing your finances, consistency builds trust and reliability.

• Tip: Create a schedule, stick to it, and track EVERYTHING (from Alieve to mileage to your phone bill to your new umbrella because yours broke at the most inopportune time to wearing through shoes!). If you can afford it, use a professional pet care app such as Walkies to simplify tracking on the go. Consistency in your efforts will pay off in the long run, much like those daily walks keep pets happy and healthy. (Plus, fresh air + steps + stress relief for you, too!) ?? ??
• First-timers: Having your own pet does not necessarily equate to immediate success in pet care. Consider investing in a few cost-effective trainings that cover things like insurance and first-aid. Like starting any business, leverage all resources that help you learn from other people’s mistakes. (Oh, that we could all learn from others' mistakes!)
• New client Meet & Greets are a MUST to see all spaces you’ll be in when caring for their pet, any unusual aspects like a door lock, and any behavior issues like excessive barking, jumping, clawing, or a Houdini hamster that can get out of the cage! (It happened, more than once!)

2. Customer Service: Treats and Belly Rubs

Excellent customer service in pet care means treats, belly rubs (if permitted ??), lots of love, and pictures sent to the owners! In business, it means going the extra mile to ensure your customers are satisfied and feel valued.

• Tip: Personalize your interactions, follow up with clients, and show appreciation. Pictures are key (to show their pet is thriving and, conversely, to record any issues.) Happy customers are loyal customers, just like a well-pampered pet. ????

But don’t try belly rubs on your human clients ??

Want to be fur-ther info-tained ??? Get the full scoop at brandwhisperer.ai/#blog

In the meantime, thanks for sharing your Sunday a.m. with us here on The Brand Wagon! Feel free to comment with any of your lessons learned to help others grow their SMBs.

Happy hustling! ??