Best Side Hustles for Dog Daycare
If you love dogs and are looking for a side hustle in Canada, starting a dog daycare business can be an excellent way to earn extra income.
With more pet owners seeking reliable care for their furry friends, the demand for dog daycare services has never been higher. Whether you want to run a small at-home daycare or expand into a full-fledged business, there are plenty of opportunities to make money doing something you love.
Starting Your Own Dog Daycare
Running your own dog daycare allows you to offer pet owners a safe place for their dogs while they are away at work or on vacation. Services can include dog walking, playtime, feeding, and overnight stays. You can start small by offering daycare services in your home or expand into a larger facility depending on demand.
Income Potential:
Income varies based on location, services offered, and the size of your business. You can charge anywhere from $20 to $50 per day per dog, with the potential to make $1,000 or more weekly, especially in larger cities.
How to Get Started:
- Register your business with the Canadian government.
- Check local zoning laws and pet business regulations.
- Consider getting certifications in pet first aid and animal care.
- Advertise through social media, local pet shops, and dog parks.
Links to Get Started:
Dog Walking Services
Dog walking is a great entry point into the dog care industry. Many dog owners need someone to take their dogs for daily walks when they are busy with work or other obligations. You can offer flexible services, from single daily walks to multiple walks per day.
Income Potential:
Dog walkers typically charge $15 to $30 per walk. With multiple clients per day, you can easily earn $500 to $1,500 per month.
How to Get Started:
- Advertise your services on platforms like Rover or PetBacker.
- Reach out to local pet owners through social media or flyers.
- Consider offering package deals to encourage repeat clients.
Overnight Dog Boarding
Overnight dog boarding services cater to pet owners who need a place for their dogs to stay while they are away. This side hustle requires a safe, dog-friendly environment and can be done at home or at a dedicated boarding facility.
Income Potential:
Boarding services can be charged at $30 to $75 per night, depending on the dog’s needs and the services provided. Offering extra services like grooming or one-on-one playtime can increase your income.
How to Get Started:
- Set up your home to accommodate dogs comfortably.
- Use a booking platform like Rover to manage reservations.
- Promote your services locally and through pet care websites.
Links to Get Started:
Pet Grooming Services
If you have grooming skills, offering dog grooming services can complement your dog daycare business. Many dog owners seek out grooming services, such as bathing, haircuts, and nail trimming, which can be done in a separate space or as part of your daycare offering.
Income Potential:
Dog grooming can generate anywhere from $30 to $100 per session, depending on the size of the dog and the services provided. With consistent clients, you can build a solid income stream.
How to Get Started:
- Invest in grooming equipment and get trained in proper techniques.
- Offer grooming services as part of your daycare package or as a standalone service.
- Advertise your grooming services in local pet stores and online.
Dog Daycare App Services
If you prefer a more flexible side hustle, consider joining dog daycare platforms like Rover and PetBacker, which connect pet owners with local caregivers. This allows you to work as much or as little as you want while benefiting from the platform's marketing and client network.
Income Potential:
Platforms typically take a percentage of each booking, but you can still earn a good income, especially if you become a highly-rated caregiver. Most dog sitters make around $25 to $50 per day per dog.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up on platforms like Rover or PetBacker.
- Set your rates, availability, and preferences.
- Build your reputation by delivering great service and earning positive reviews.
Conclusion
Dog daycare is a rewarding side hustle for pet lovers in Canada. Whether you’re offering daycare services, dog walking, overnight boarding, or grooming, there are plenty of ways to turn your passion for dogs into a profitable business. By starting small and building your client base, you can grow your dog daycare services into a successful and sustainable side hustle.