I always try to find unique ways to make some hustle money. Since I just purchased my humble home last year, I decided that I should have my house make some extra income for me. My mom use her house to run her business as a daycare provider so I thought to myself, why not try to emulate something that mom has done for over ten years? The only difference is that instead of kids, its dogs. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned from being a dog sitter. Now go out there and hustle.
Sign up
The first step is the most crucial step into becoming a Rover dog sitter. You have to put in the time to put all the information necessary to get started and also realize the fact that Rover will perform a background check on you. After that you are on your way.
Words and pictures matter
Provide a detailed profile about yourself so potential customers can see that you are a good trusting person who is capable of taking care of their little fur baby. Additionally, I would include plenty pictures of yourself in your natural environment. It helps if you own a dog and give you an extra edge compared to someone who does not own one in my humble opinion, but don’t let that deter you. When I created my profile, I made sure to have plenty of action pics with Hilo and I and also pictures of myself volunteering for the local Humane Society. Words matter. Pictures are worth a thousand words.
Undercut competition temporarily
I did a quick search of my competition and researched just how much they were charging and dropped my price by five dollars. I did this so I can gain a few customers and some positive reviews from them. After a month or so, I raised my prices up to what my competitors are charging. Remember, when it comes to gaining new clients, trust means everything.
Show what makes your service unique to someone else.
I specifically stated on my profile that I specialized in bigger dogs and senior dogs. It took some of the smaller breed potential clients away, but I felt that when you have a specialty, customers tend to like it. Customers can also tell based on my pictures that I have a large dog and that I have the physical capability to handle big dogs if they decide to act out.
I also provided extra services on top of just watching their dog including daily brushing, nail trimmings, baths, and the number of times dogs get out to exercise. Details like this is crucial so customers can see that you know your stuff and will provide the best care for their pups.
Don’t accept every client
This was my mistake at first when I was starting out. I was so excited of getting a request from new clients that I would just accept anyone. Big mistake. Do not take puppies if you can’t handle them properly. I had no idea that it would be ten times the work. The former client I had also lied about them being socialized and house trained and that ended up not being true. If something seems off on their profile and more importantly on the meet up interview, DO NOT ACCEPT the client! This alone will save you time and your sanity. Sometimes, a few extra bucks is just not worth it.
Charge appropriately for you service
Dog sitting is not as easy as it looks. I have had Hilo for six months now and I can honestly say that he is on a league of his own. Some of the dogs I’ve had had nails so long that it was hurting them when they walk. I’ve had some that had terrible breath due to improper oral care. I even had one that had ticks! Customers will lie and Rover does not cover the sitter as much as they do the customer. I felt that I was the best sitter who provided the best service so I charged more. Dog sitting is hard work, especially with multiple dogs. Know what you’re worth. I provided premium service so it warrants a premium price. When you charge more, you get rid of potential problem customers that just want the cheapest service.
Know when to quit
I made a little over $1300 dollars while working for Rover in just a couple of months. I made some decent money but my wife and I decided that it was time to quit and retire. It was a good experience while it lasted. Time for a different hustle.
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