Читать книгу Careers with Dogs - Kim Campbell Thornton - Страница 53

Starting and running a small business is challenging, even when it involves the pleasure of working with dogs. Like any small-business owner, a dog trainer must purchase or rent a work space; buy insurance; print business cards, stationery, and promotional materials; advertise his or her business; and pay for utilities and other bills. Here are some options and issues to consider before you jump in.

Trainers often work out of their own homes and visit private clients at their homes rather than renting or purchasing a facility. Trainers who teach classes or see clients on their own property must ensure that their insurance coverage is sufficient.

Trainers who want to offer classes must acquire space in which to hold them. Public parks usually require permits for events, such as classes, and may require proof of liability insurance. Trainers who work through community recreation departments, however, may have access to public parks or school parking lots, as well as coverage by city or county insurance. Some trainers rent space in buildings in industrial parks. These can be good choices because the buildings are large and it’s easy to install rubber matting or other flooring that will make a comfortable and safe training surface.

Be prepared to spend time keeping records and paying bills. This drudge work is the bane of every small-business owner. If your business becomes successful enough, you can hire someone to take it off your hands, but until then, don’t let it fall by the wayside. If you aren’t organized, you’ll lose business and incur late fees and penalties from vendors and the Internal Revenue Service.

Set specific work hours. It’s all too easy for training to become a 24/7 job and take over your life. After all, who doesn’t want to help people and dogs work better together? But if you don’t set limits, you’ll find yourself taking calls from clients every day, from early in the morning to late at night.