Whether you’re a long-time pet store owner or manager, or you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to find ways to diversify by adding new services to your business, especially in this booming, ever-growing industry.
Here are some relatively low-risk, potentially low-cost, fun services you may want to consider for starters.
1) Doggie Day Care
In today’s hectic society, many working people are seeking
doggie day care services. As pet parents typically will leave their dogs with you an average of three times a week, there is a good opportunity for steady income. Depending on your approach, start up can be inexpensive. Plus, you get to play with pooches all day!
To determine if this is a good service for you to offer, you can get familiarized by working or volunteering at a
dog kennel or established doggie day care facility. Be aware that, although there are no federal licensing requirements at this time, many cities, municipalities and counties may demand that you obtain certain
business licenses and permits. Plus, you will need
insurance. And be sure to check your local
zoning laws and regulations before you launch such a business.
Basic Tips
- Start out with a small number of dogs
- Make sure all your canine clients have up-to-date vaccinations and are in good health
- Be prepared to diffuse tense scenarios, such as dogs fighting with each other
- Have the right supplies
- Ensure that you can provide a safe, hazard-free environment for your furry clients
2) Pet Massage
As
holistic pet care is becoming increasingly popular,
animal massage therapy is in demand. Many pet parents now realize that critters gain the same health and wellness benefits from
massage treatments as people, which is especially good for older or ailing dogs and
cats. For those who are considering adding pet grooming services to their existing business, this is a good way to initially test the waters. In addition, this doesn’t cost a lot, and it’s rewarding. It also doesn’t require licensing. But it’s a good idea to obtain
certification.
Basic Tips
- Be sure that you really love and have great patience with animals
- First practice on people
- Intern with a pet massage therapist to develop hands-on skills
- Determine if you have the right amount of physical strength, especially in your hands
3) In-Store Pet Photography
Many people consider pets their children. So they love to have photos taken of them. If you’re a good amateur photographer and have decent equipment, offering this service is a great opportunity to expand your services and client base. In addition to innate artistic talent, this also requires patience, a good sense of humor and a genuine love of animals. The latter will show through your work, giving you a greater potential for success. Then it should be easy for you to take
great animal photographs.
Basic Tips
- First, practice by taking photos of your own, friends’ and relative’s pets
- Create a professional-looking portfolio of your work to display to potential clients
- Take a dog training workshop to learn how to handle sometimes unruly customers
- Have a nice backdrop set up, as well as cute props or toys on hand
- Supply treats for greater canine cooperation
4) Wedding Planning for Pet Lovers
Here's another great pet shop diversification idea that those who decide to branch out into pet photography or doggie day care might consider as an adjunct sideline: Providing services for couples who wish to include pets in their
weddings.
Basic Tips
- Partner with a wedding planner to provide your services
- Doggie day care operators could offer to watch the pet during and after the event
- Pet groomers could create special packages for pets who are participating in the big day
- Pet photographers could offer to take pre-wedding portraits of the couple and pet
- Doggie boutique proprietors could carry pet attire for the occasion
