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The Best Job On The Planet

  • 13/03/2015

Ever wish you could quit your day job and work with animals? Do you sit at your desk job dreaming of a life outside the office? I did this for nearly a decade until I finally had the courage to step into a life less ordinary. A life surrounded by nature and happy dogs, the life of a professional dog walker. Walking dogs is fast becoming a popular career choice for people from all walks of life. The role offers great freedom and a feel-good factor unrivaled by anything I ever experienced in the corporate world.

Before I became a dog walker I had no real appreciation for what the job really entails. My idea of a dog walker was slapping a lead on a dog and taking him for a walk around the block. Growing up in Ireland in the 80’s there was no such thing as a professional dog walker. It was only when I attended the dog*tec Dog Walking Academy that my eyes were opened to the wonders of walking dogs off the lead in carefully designed groups. This changed everything.

Cities and towns all over Ireland are seeing a recent growth in dog walkers, dog day carers and pet sitters. The reality is that with a growing population and ever demanding work schedule more and more people are turning to professionals to help care for their dogs. One in five Irish households now has a dog (European Pet Food Industry Federation 2012). The increase in demand for pet care professionals, including dog walkers, is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs all over Ireland to make a living doing what they love. Working with dogs.

The growth in services like walking and day care is working out in favour of our pooches too. It is not unusual to get feedback from clients about how a dogs’ behaviour has improved noticeably since interacting regularly with other dogs. Instead of being home alone all day, these dogs are given crucial exercise and social outings. This isn’t just healthy, it keeps dogs safe and in permanent homes.

Many dog walkers start out with just their love of dogs and a desire to escape the office or make a change in lifestyle. They soon realise that the job is also about being responsible for the safety of someone else’s beloved pet while running a business. But despite the challenges, most dog walkers think they are living the dream. I for one believe that my worst day as a dog walker is better than the best day in my old job as a commercial lawyer.

Article by Sue Walsh (BCL, LL.M, CDBC) who is the the owner and manager of dog training and walking business, Dog Almighty (www.dogalmighty.co.nz). Sue is bringing a 3 day workshop called the dog*tec Dog Walking Academy to Dublin in June 2015 (www.dogtec.org). Sue, originally from Ireland, practiced business law before pursuing a career working with dogs. She is now a certified dog behaviour consultant with the IAABC.

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