During early 2022, I was feeling in a bit of a rut. I had just started a new job with a local veterinary practice as an animal assistant with the goal of going on to study to become a veterinary nurse. I was so excited for this opportunity and when I started at the practice I felt very happy and content. However, towards Feb/March time, I was feeling very unsure of this path and my mental health took quite a big hit. I was unfortunately having lots of time off work (which is unlike me) and I knew something wasn't right and I had to make a change. Setting up a dog walking business isn't something that had crossed my mind before but I came across an account on TikTok/Instagram called All Paws Outdoors which was a girl called Tay who had created her own dog walking and pet sitting business. I found myself watching all of her videos obsessively and quickly decided this was something I wanted to do myself. I knew I wanted to work with animals (specifically dogs) as this is why I tried to go into veterinary nursing, however, I knew starting my own business in this field would be a better path for me as I would have full control and could create my own schedule which is something I think I was longing for when I was in previous jobs. Another bonus is that it would mean I could spend more time with my dog, Pip!
I took the plunge in May/June 2022 and went full time with the business straight away without building up a client base. It was the perfect time, as we were having to move out of our flat and move in with the in-laws whilst we waited (hopefully) for planning permission for our house. This meant less outgoings initially so I could go for it with the business. I had done lots of research after watching videos from other dog walking businesses on TikTok, Youtube and Instagram and began to get the wheels in motion for Simply Paws! Once I had become fully insured. DBS checked and completed a few courses, I was ready to go. I advertised on my local village pages and printed out leaflets and business cards and created my own website and social media pages. It didn't take long before I started getting enquiries and it all went from there! It wasn't long before the solo walks had to turn into group walks as I didn't have enough hours in the day for all of the dogs, not to mention the amount of steps I was covering doing just solos was crazy (I think my record for one day was 40,000!). One step that really helped elevate my business was buying a new vehicle. Ideally I wanted a van as that was what I saw most other dog walkers with, however I could not find a decent one within my price range for the life of me. I decided to go for Skoda Roomster which has actually been amazing. It is a reliable make which is the main thing I wanted and has a lot of boot space to fit in more doggies. Being able to transport the dogs made it so much easier to transition into group walks and explore new places with them. I am currently one year and 2 months into the business and I couldn't be happier. Running your own business is so rewarding (especially a doggo related one!) and being able to create my own schedule has really helped improve my mental health. I now have more time for my hobbies and to spend with my dog, family and friends. If you are currently thinking about starting your own dog walking business or any business for that matter, take the plunge!
Naomi x
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