Dog walking is a well-liked and lucrative career, but it’s crucial to take the essential safety measures to safeguard both you and your customers. Getting public liability insurance is one of the most crucial things you can do as a dog walker. With public liability insurance, you’re covered if you unintentionally cause someone harm or damage to property while working. The significance of public liability insurance for dog walkers, along with the other prerequisites and credentials you need to work as a professional dog walker in the UK, will all be discussed in this article. Do I Require a Dog Walking Licence in the UK?
There is no particular license needed in the UK for dog walkers. However, you must adhere to any applicable local authority laws if you intend to walk dogs in public areas. This could entail acquiring a permit or license to walk dogs in a particular region or abiding by certain animal welfare laws. It’s crucial to confirm with your local council that you are adhering to all applicable laws.
As we already mentioned, dog walkers in the UK must have public liability insurance. If you accidently cause harm to someone or destroy property while working, this kind of insurance will cover you. It’s significant to note that although public liability insurance is strongly advised, it is not legally required. You can be held personally responsible for any injuries or damages sustained while working if you don’t have this insurance. This could have a drastic financial impact and perhaps force you out of business.
In the UK, there are no particular requirements for becoming a professional dog walker. However, it’s critical to have a solid grasp of animal behavior, welfare, and health. Many dog walkers decide to enroll in classes or pursue certifications in canine or animal behavior. This can help you serve your customers more effectively and make sure the dogs you’re walking are receiving the finest care possible.
Several variables, such as the location, the distance walked, and the number of dogs being walked, affect the price of dog walking. Dog walkers typically bill between £10 and £15 per hour for a group walk and between £15 and £25 per hour for a solo walk in the UK. You should base your charges on your experience, overhead, and the local market; keep in mind that these costs are only a suggestion.
In conclusion, dog walkers in the UK must have public liability insurance. It’s crucial to understand animal behavior, health, and welfare as well as to adhere to any applicable local government restrictions. Although there are no particular requirements for being a dog walker, getting certified or completing classes in animal care or canine behavior will allow you to give your clients a better service. Last but not least, the price of dog walking varies depending on a variety of variables, therefore it’s critical to base your charges on your expertise, overhead, and the local market.