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June 11, 2011 | PSI Staff

It is understandable that the economy is causing many pet sitters to stress over the impact it will have on business. Fortunately, spending on pets has remained high and by taking a few extra precautions, pet sitters are sure to ride out the impending economic downturn.

To maintain the success of your pet-sitting business:

Diversify your services. Pet owners have many different needs. If the economy has caused a decrease in your pet-sitting assignments, consider other services that may benefit your existing and potential clients. Consider offering overnights, daily dog walks or pet taxi services, to name a few.

Re-examine your service area. While it is tempting to take any and every pet-sitting assignment—especially if business has been slow—consider your overhead costs. Traveling outside of your immediate service area costs additional money and time and offers little to no profit. Consider revising your service area, or charging a mileage fee for clients outside of a specific range. Focus marketing efforts on convenient neighborhoods that have proven to offer the largest clientele.

Broaden your (marketing) horizons. E-mail and Internet marketing campaigns offer simple—and often free—ways to reach current and potential clients. Step outside of your comfort zone and consider trying social media, such as blogs, Facebook, YouTube or Twitter to promote your business to local pet owners.

Maintain excellent service. Spending less time at a visit or forgoing leaving a daily note may allow you to fit more visits in a day, but decreased service is never a good idea—in any economy. By continuing to offer stellar care and possibly even adding benefits, such as new client referral rewards, you are sure to outlast any economic downturn.

Network, Network, Network! The importance of networking can never be stressed enough. Involvement in a local pet-sitting network or networking with fellow pet sitters online through PSI’s Member Forum or in person at our annual Quest for Excellence convention is a great way to receive support, advice and referrals. A strong professional network is essential for success, regardless of the state of the economy.