How to Start Your Own Pet Project and Make it Lucrative

GUEST BLOG POST BY JESSICA BRODY

It’s no secret that Americans love their pets and see them as family. In fact, this affection for pets has turned into a lucrative industry that has branched out into many possibilities for the animal-loving entrepreneur. Startup costs can be relatively low, and you can incorporate other hobbies to create one unique business venture. 

Types of Pet Care Businesses

If you love animals and would like to help them, there are many pet care businesses you can start. You could be a pet sitter, dog walker, or groomer. If you have a penchant for arts and crafts, you could open an e-commerce store for pet products like pet portraits or homemade dog treats.

Pet sitting can grow into a physical pet hotel and spa, which are also popular since they offer an alternative to traditional animal boarding. You can adapt your pet care business to suit your strengths and skills. 

How to Start Your Pet Care Business

First, choose the right business niche that is centered on your skillset and your target market. You don’t want to become a dog behaviorist unless you have the proper expertise. Another tip is to look for unmet needs. You don’t want to start dog walking if your neighborhood has a walker on every corner.

Second, you’ll have a better idea of startup costs if you focus on a niche. Dog groomers need more equipment than pet sitters. It’s recommended to start with a low-cost business if you wish to avoid needing a business loan. 

Writing Your Pet Care Business Plan

Every business needs a business plan, and pet care is no exception. You can find many business plan templates online, including on the US Small Business Administration website. Business plans can be long or short and can be updated anytime. Most include the following sections:

• Executive Summary. This includes items such as your mission statement and why your business will succeed.
• Products and Services. This describes the problems that your products and services solve.
• Market Analysis. This includes information about the industry, including any competitors.
• Marketing and Sales. This explains how you plan to sell to your target audience and distribute products. Will you use a wholesaler, drop-shipper, or manufacture the products yourself?
• Appendix. This section is usually requested by a third party and includes supporting documents: credit histories, product photographs, legal documents, permits, etc. 

Marketing Your Business Using a DBA

There are various ways to market your business. You can utilize social media, your own website, and a blog to create an online presence. The only drawback is maintaining consistency in your business name so that it remains near the top of internet search results. Many entrepreneurs use a DBA, or doing business as, because it makes it easier to branch out into other markets under a different business name. A DBA can still be incorporated in marketing copy, thus linking your multiple business names. 

Are You Ready to Start Your Pet Care Business?

Starting a pet care business is not much different from other businesses. You have to know your strengths, determine your marketing strategies, and plan accordingly.  

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