Going to Trade School

Dog walking businesses have become known as excellent side gig opportunities for people who enjoy working with both dogs and their owners. In many areas, reliable dog walkers are able to build a significant income stream to help support their households or other interests. Dog walking can also serve as somewhat of a gateway into other professions that could result in even higher levels of income and the ability to leave a current day job that has become tedious or uncomfortable. 

If you are currently enjoying the fruits of a successful dog walking business that you would like to expand to the next level, here are some important reasons to consider taking courses to become a certified dog trainer in your area. 

New opportunities to provide more services to current clients 

While it can be difficult for dog owners to trust a brand new pet service provider, experienced dog walkers who have already built a solid network of clients are in the unique position of already having earned that trust. If the dog walker chooses to expand their knowledge and services by becoming a certified dog trainer, they will be able to benefit from both their existing customers, friends, neighbors, and coworkers that their existing customers will likely refer. In addition to reducing the need for marketing, this type of warm relationship also reduces the amount of time needed to build a new dog training business. 

New opportunities to serve your community

Another important reason to consider taking certified dog trainer courses is to be more capable of serving your local community. Well-trained service dogs and their certified instructors are increasingly utilized in locating missing or endangered persons of all ages, especially in situations where the terrain, weather, or other obstacles reduce the effectiveness of drones, helicopters, and traditional search and recovery techniques. 

Taking a course to become a certified dog trainer can also provide an opportunity to serve your community by assisting with the training of service dogs to be used as companion animals for those who have health or mobility issues that would benefit from this type of assistance. Many hospitals, nursing homes, and school systems may also be interested in scheduling visits or presentations with a graduate of certified dog training courses and their dog. 

Building your current dog walking business into something more profitable and rewarding begins with learning more about the courses and meeting with some of the instructors. To begin this exciting process, contact a certified dog trainer school in your area.