So you’ve decided that your love of animals can also be a profitable business venture. But where do you start when starting your own pet sitting business? To set yourself up for success, you’ll want to ensure you have all the administration, financial aspects and legalities up to date.
The Basics
Firstly, you want to make sure you have the right business structure which will suit your pet sitting goals. Secondly, you should determine the location of your pet sitting enterprise. Will you run it from home? This will allow you to work hours that suit you and you will be able to save on overhead costs. However, you may find that running a business from your home restricts your privacy and customer base due to its fixed location. Therefore, you may also want to consider running a store or having a mobile location to create more flexibility and greater possibilities for your customers.
Finally, you will need to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN). Having an ABN ensures you that you are following the legal requirements of running a business in Australia. Registering an ABN is a simple process, and your business will be able to gain benefits such as tax benefits as your pet sitting enterprise will be recognised as a separate legal entity.
Bookkeeping
Another aspect to starting a business is financial. Your pet sitting enterprise will need a basic bookkeeping system. This can be difficult and time consuming to understand. Therefore, you may consider outsourcing your bookkeeping to a third party. By outsourcing you will be able to spend more time focusing on your business.
Intellectual property
Now you have the basics under control, it’s time to get creative! Firstly, you need a name. It is important that once you decide on your name, you should check the availability of the business name you have chosen. If the name is available, you should then register your business as a trademark to ensure that you have exclusive use of your business name throughout Australia.
If you want to go that extra mile why not add a logo or phrase to increase your brand awareness. These can also be trademarked so you have the exclusive right to use and sell with your brand name and logo, making it a very important marketing tool.
Hiring Staff
As your business grows you may want to consider hiring staff. You should consider how many employees you are looking to hire and what type of employment they will receive such as full time, part time or casual. Before you hire anyone, you will need to implement an Employment Agreement and some Workplace policies such as a Drugs and Alcohol policy.
Insurance
When starting a business you must consider if any insurance will be needed. Your pet sitting enterprise should have public liability insurance in case of accident or injury to third parties. Insurance ensures you are putting safety first whilst boosting your professional image. If you want to discuss more about insurance options, then it is best to seek an insurance lawyer.
Expanding your customer base
All that is left to get your pet sitting enterprise thriving is customers. You must consider what is the most effective advertising method to reach your target market. Some methods to consider include
- Social media
- Google or Facebook ads
- Flyers in the local neighbourhood
- Word of mouth
Now you are all set to make that dream business into a reality! If you are looking for further assistance with any aspect of your business, contact a business lawyer today.
