Not All Are Created Equal
If you love pets and you’ve always wanted to own your own business, then the next logical step would be opening a business in the pet care industry! Pet care is on trend to become a $75 billion industry by the end of this year, so it’s no wonder why so many are getting involved in it. From boutique pet stores to doggie daycares, there’s a variety of opportunity to blend your love of animals with your entrepreneurial spirit. You also have options when it comes to what type of business you’ll own – will you operate an independent location or take advantage of a pet franchise business? Both are excellent options and each segment of the industry offers each. The first step in starting your journey to pet care business ownership is determining which segment of the industry you want to pursue.
Pet Stores
One option for a pet franchise business is to open a pet store. We’ve all seen them, and a lot of us patronize them on a weekly basis. They typically sell a wide range of pet supplies like food, treats, toys, and more. Some even incorporate dog training and grooming into their business model, for which you need more specialized employees. Owning a pet retail location can be lucrative but doesn’t necessarily give you hands-on experience with pets on a daily basis. Many people who deeply love animals want to be in more contact with them if they’re going into business in the pet care industry. While most pet stores welcome you to bring Fido along for the shopping trip, pet parents don’t always take advantage of this luxury, which means you see less pets and more product.
Additionally, the initial investment and franchise fees associated with pet stores are much higher than other pet industry franchises. Places like Pet Supplies Plus estimate a need of up to a million dollars in start-up costs needed to open the doors. You have to have a proper location then fill it with stock before you can do anything. While owning a pet store may be lucrative, it takes a lot to get going and doesn’t pay off in wet kisses and tail wags.
Pet Waste Removal
Believe it or not, pet waste removal is a thriving pet industry franchise. One of the real benefits of this type of franchise is that start-up costs are low. The most well-known franchise in the pet waste removal arena estimates initial investment at under $60,000. You also don’t need much specialized training or experience to get into the pet waste removal industry. However, pet lovers might generally say that this particular part of the pet care industry stinks! When working in pet waste removal, it’s unlikely that you’ll interact with dogs much at all. If they happen to be outside when you’re on-site for a job, you may get a few pets in, but the bulk of your time is spent focused on what they’ve left behind.
Additionally, pet waste removal may not be a stable part of the industry. This service is considered a luxury by many and when the economy takes a shift, it’s likely that this service will be one of the firsts to be cut. People tend to continue to patronize other pet franchise businesses even during a rough patch in the economy – pets still need to eat and be entertained – but pet parents can handle their furry family’s own waste.
The pet industry is booming – don’t miss out on a great opportunity! To learn more about why now is the time to invest, click below:
Pet Industry Numbers: Why Invest?
Doggie Daycare and Boarding
One of the hottest parts of the pet care industry is doggie daycare and boarding. Over the years, people have finally realized that dogs are social creatures and don’t thrive when they’re left alone all day while you’re at work. Doggie daycare provides a safe, stimulating space where dogs can learn and play with others and get that social interaction they so desperately seek. The dog care franchise has provided an excellent model for how pet lovers/entrepreneurs can open a location that offers a much-needed and much-valued service. While there are independent dog daycares, investing in a franchise with this particular type of pet care business tends to be more beneficial to all involved.
Just because you love dogs doesn’t mean you’re fit to run a doggie daycare. These businesses require specified training in both canine behavior and business management. Getting a room full of dogs to safely coexist requires some know-how! That’s why partnering with a dog care franchise like K9 Resorts is a smart move. A franchise already has a proven model of success, which means you inherit all that knowledge instead of going through your own trial and error. They’ve already formulated a franchise plan for comprehensive pet care, customer service, and business management that puts you ahead of the game by the time you open your doors.
Additionally, people know the brand and know what to expect when they use your services. Our pets are our family members and we don’t relinquish their care to just anyone. Kind of like choosing a daycare for our children, finding the perfect doggie daycare and boarding fit can be nerve wracking. That’s why people stick with brands they know and trust.
Perhaps one of the best parts of owning a dog care franchise is that you get to interact with dogs! Of all the pet franchise businesses available, this one may be one of the most interactive and fun for pet lovers – especially if you elect to be a hands-on business owner. A typical day in the doggie daycare world involves monitoring and playing with dogs for most of the day. You’ll be able to build lasting relationships with both the pets and the parents as part of your business ownership journey!