Kennel Business

If you're interested in starting a kennel or doggy daycare business, you have to start at the beginning. First get hands on experience to learn everything you can about the care, handling, and training of dogs. You'll need a good business sense and people skills to start and run daily operations and deal with clients. Do extensive research on existing facilities to get an idea of services that are on the market today. Get together a business plan, find a way to raise capital, and scout out a location where you can be competitive.

There are resources available to help budding entrepreneurs get started. Check with your local community to find out what classes and information are available.

Careers with Animals and Dogs

If you're a dog lover and you're trying to find a career that will let you work with dogs, there's a number of options to consider. Here's a partial list:

• Veterinarian – diagnose and treat ailing animals, including dogs
• Veterinary Technician – assist in the diagnosis and treatment of ailing animals, including dogs
• Dog Trainer – teach an owner and dog, basic canine obedience and address specific training and behavioral issues.
• Dog Handler – care for, train, and handle a dog in the show ring
• Canine Physical Therapist – assist in the physical recovery of a canine from surgery or other health issues
• Canine Animal Behaviorist – diagnose behavioral issues in dogs and recommend treatment, including medication
• Animal Shelter Director – run the facility of an animal care facility for homeless pets, including administration duties
• Doggy Daycare Owner – run a boarding facility to care for pets while their owners are away

Become a Pet Sitter

If you're looking for a way to earn a living working with dogs, consider pet sitting. You'll spend your days with clients that you enjoy being around – the four-legged variety. Typical tasks include dog walking, socialization, feeding, administering medications, and light household chores. It's a great way to make money for dog lovers. You'll have an opportunity to work for an existing business or if you're entrepreneurial, start your own!

Scoop Your Way into Business

So you're a dog lover who loves the outdoors and want to start your own business. If you don't mind a little dirty work, consider starting a poop scooping business. Neighborhoods in areas across the country have dog owners who would rather spend their time attending to other things than cleaning up their yards. It's hard work and lacks the glamour factor. But, a poop scooping business has its perks. You'll have low start-up costs, flexible hours, and get paid well.