Hi,
I am a dog boarder in Woodridge, IL. I recently added more services in attempt to be more marketable. I have business cards. I have been trying to leave them places and approach people about what I offer.
What are considered the "slow" months of the year?
Thanks! Mary
My experience with Rover the last 2 years is that Jan and Feb are slow for boarding. People have overspent at Christmas, they go back to work, and kids go back to school. I have also found that Sep and Oct are slow as well - people are saving up time and money for the upcoming holidays. I live in the Dallas metro area, so your area may be different.
Here in Middle TN, September and October were really good for me. I have nothing going on now, though. Looking for alternative ways to get myself through until spring.
It depends on your area. Usually in Jan. seems to slow down. I recommend connecting with rescue organizations and attending their Adoption events handing out your cards. Also go to pet friendly hotels/motels closest to you, introduce yourself and ask to leave them a few of your cards. Some people bring their dogs but want to go places their dog(s) can't go and they can't leave them in the hotel/motel alone. Work on building up repeat customers that travel. Do you have the private neighborhood "Nextdoor"? Do an internet search, if you do sign up and post/advertise for your neighborhood. Hope that helps give you some ideas.
Thank you, Kathleen. Yes I have done some of your suggestions listed above with the exception of "Nextdoor" I don't really have any neighbors that need my help. Thanks again!
If you do have "Nextdoor" it is a great private online site to advertise. Your "neighborhood" would include a specific radius including your zip code and I can include 16 other surrounding neighborhoods. Got a couple "neighbors" that way.
Great ideas about the motels and adoption events. I just became a Rover sitter in July. I have been steadily busy but September and December have been amazing! I have connected with owners that travel frequently (retirees, people that live away from family, etc.). They refer me to others. I have had a few hits on my business cards that I left on a bulletin board in a pet store. Really, you just have to network and see what works for you and your area. Market in the areas of town that can "afford" a pet sitter. That sounds tacky but I am a caregiver in the mornings for an elderly lady and my experience is that those are the families that can afford care for their parents and pets.