How Our Team Advertises Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Services In Columbus, Ohio

A cheerful dog walker in Columbus with a contented dog and cat.

At Hands N Paws, we give our team what they need to shine at what they do best—taking care of furry friends. While the admin folks handle majority of the marketing details, we make sure our dog walkers and pet sitters in Columbus, Ohio also know the ropes to attract more pet parents. Some of the most effective promotion comes from our team members talking about us within the community. Their profound understanding of our business and values positions them to be powerful advocates, capable of welcoming new wagging tails to the Hands N Paws family!

Let’s check out how our dog walkers and pet sitters get the word out about our services. It helps them rock their roles and connect with pet parents in a way that goes beyond just pet care—more like becoming the go-to pals in the neighborhood.

Understand the Brand

Before delving into any marketing initiatives, it’s crucial to grasp the essence of the brand you are promoting. At Hands N Paws, we specialize in providing pet sitting and dog walking services in Columbus, Ohio. Our big appeal to customers, however, extends beyond the mere transactional aspect.

We’ve come to understand that our customers aren’t simply seeking pet sitting or dog walking services; rather, they are drawn to the intangible outcome of our service delivery. It’s the assurance and tranquility they experience, knowing that their beloved pets are in capable hands while they attend to their bustling lives away from home.

Every facet of our business, from the thoughtful design of our services to our communication approach after completing a service, is meticulously crafted with a singular goal – to offer pet parents a genuine and profound peace of mind. This peace of mind is the coveted assurance they seek regarding the well-being of their furry companions.

StoryBrand Framework: The Power of Storytelling

At Hands N Paws, we acknowledge the significance of storytelling in shaping our brand and connecting with our audience. The StoryBrand marketing framework serves as our guiding compass, directing us to deliver a clear and engaging message. Let’s explore the key components that constitute the Hands N Paws StoryBrand framework:

First, we employ the StoryBrand framework to spotlight the pet parent as the hero in our story who faces challenges and seeks resolution. At Hands N Paws, we assume the role of the guide—a figure equipped with a plan, empathy, and a clear path to aid the hero in achieving success.

Next, addressing the customer’s problem, we recognize that many pet parents grapple with feelings of anxiety and guilt when leaving their pets alone. The demands of busy lives, filled with work and travel, coupled with the necessity for reliable and trustworthy pet care, contribute to these challenges.

As our solution, we understand pets as cherished family members, and our mission revolves around providing peace of mind—a crucial desire for pet parents seeking assurance that their furry companions are well-cared for and content in their absence. We assume the role of a leader, extending assistance to pet parents navigating challenges amid busy schedules and travel commitments. Through the delivery of reliable and trustworthy pet care services, we become a trusted partner in the pet-parenting journey.

Prepare an Elevator Pitch

When engaging with potential clients during dog walks or visits to the dog park, having a well-prepared, succinct elevator pitch is key to capturing their attention and making a memorable impression. This is equally important if you plan on networking at local pet businesses. At Hands N Paws, we believe it’s crucial to ensure that our brand’s mission and purpose take center stage in every new pet-parent interaction. This means emphasizing our commitment to providing peace of mind to busy pet parents.

Consider incorporating these effective lines into your pitch!

“We specialize in in-home pet care, offering dog walking, pet sitting, and cat sitting services. Our pride lies in providing pet parents with genuine peace of mind, assuring them that their pets are in good hands whether they’re away from home or busy with their daily routines.”

“Catering to 9-5ers, vacationers, and those leading bustling lifestyles, we alleviate the guilt associated with leaving pets behind. Our services are designed to offer peace of mind to busy pet parents, ensuring their furry companions receive the care and attention they deserve.”

“With services available in four different time durations (20, 30, 45, 60 minutes), you can tailor our offerings to your pet’s specific needs. Whether you’re away on vacation or occupied with work all day, our customizable service model guarantees peace of mind for you, knowing your pets are well taken care of.”

“Functioning as an integrated team, our pet care technicians are committed to providing services that are both consistent and reliable. Unlike relying on a solitary individual, our clients gain the assurance of having a dedicated team at their disposal.”

“We take pride in our professionalism, with insurance and bonding in place. Our user-friendly app facilitates seamless communication with clients, providing real-time updates during pet care sessions. Clients receive comprehensive journal reports, including visit notes, photos, a mapped GPS route of their dog’s walk, and more.”

Be Relationship-Oriented in Your Interactions

In the world of dog walking and pet sitting, acknowledging the unique personalities of each furry client and embracing a relationship-oriented approach is more than just good business—it’s fundamental.

Treating pets and their owners as individuals, rather than mere appointments, establishes a foundation for enduring connections and trust. By understanding the specific needs, preferences, and quirks of every pet, dog walkers and pet sitters in Columbus, Ohio can craft a personalized and meaningful experience. This not only elevates the quality of care but also fosters a bond that goes beyond routine services.

Here’s some practices that our team implements to elevate their interactions with potential customers:

Show Genuine Interest:

In the world of dog walking and pet sitting, expressing genuine interest in pet parents is paramount. Take the time to understand their furry companions, inquire about their preferences, and convey a sincere passion for pet well-being.

Smile:

A warm and friendly smile is a powerful tool when attracting pet parents. It not only exudes warmth but also communicates a genuine love for animals, setting a positive tone for interactions.

Remember Pet Names:

In the pet care business, recalling the names of pets is equally vital. Practice associating pet names with faces to reinforce your memory and build trust with pet parents.

Be a Good Listener:

Active listening is a crucial skill when engaging with pet parents. Pay full attention to their concerns, preferences, and specific instructions regarding their pets. Show empathy towards their worries or special requests to ensure a positive experience for both pets and their owners.

Talk in Terms of Pet Interests:

Tailor your conversations to revolve around the interests and needs of the pets in your care. Discuss their favorite activities, preferred treats, and specific routines, showcasing your commitment to meeting the unique requirements of their beloved animals.

Make Pet Parents Feel Important:

Acknowledge the significance of the bond between pet parents and their furry friends. Express appreciation for the trust placed in your pet care services, and recognize the individual personalities and achievements of their pets. Making pet parents feel valued strengthens the relationship and encourages loyalty to your dog walking and pet sitting services.

Have Marketing Materials At Your Disposal

Maintaining an array of marketing materials is crucial when stepping into the dynamic and pet-loving community of Columbus, Ohio as a dog walker and pet sitter. More than just a passion for animals, success in this bustling city requires smart marketing strategies. With a variety of marketing tools at your disposal, you not only showcase professionalism but also lay the foundation for a strong and recognizable brand in a community where pet parents cherish their furry friends.

From the classic business card to innovative ‘Bark Cards’ and branded apparel, we have a plethora of marketing materials for our Columbus dog walkers and pet sitters. Each one plays a crucial role in elevating brand visibility and appeal in the local market.

*Check out the Hands N Paws Shop for team marketing materials available for purchase!

Network Smarter, Not Harder

For dog walkers and pet sitters, we suggest establishing connections with groups, businesses, or frequented locations of pet parents. Here are our top recommendations:

  • Local Pet Stores and Veterinarian Offices:
    • Partner with local pet stores and veterinarian offices to display your business cards at their front counters or community bulletin boards. These locations attract pet parents who may be interested in pet services.
  • Community Centers and Bulletin Boards:
    • Post business cards on community bulletin boards in places such as community centers, libraries, and coffee shops. Ensure that these locations are frequented by pet parents and animal lovers.
  • Pet-Friendly Events and Meetups:
    • Attend pet-friendly events, fairs, or meetups in your area. Distribute business cards to attendees, especially those who express interest in pet care services. These events provide a targeted audience of potential clients.
  • Local Parks and Trails:
    • Spend time in popular pet-friendly places, like local parks or walking trails, and offer services to pet parents you encounter. Keep a stack of business cards with you to share with those who might be interested in professional pet care.
  • Collaborate with Local Businesses:
    • Partner with local businesses that cater to pet parents, such as pet boutiques, groomers, or training facilities. Ask if you can leave a stack of business cards at their location or include them in customer bags.
  • Community Events and Sponsorships:
    • Sponsor or participate in community events, fairs, or festivals. This not only increases your visibility but also allows you to distribute business cards to a diverse audience.
  • Pet-Related Online Forums and Groups:
    • Engage with local pet-related online forums or social media groups. Share your services and offer to send business cards to those interested in your pet care offerings.
  • Hand Off Cards During Walks:
    • While walking dogs or visiting pets, carry a few business cards with you. If you encounter neighbors or other pet parents during walks, offer them a card and briefly discuss pet services.

Get Rewards for Referrals!

Introducing a rewarding referral program for dedicated dog walkers and pet sitters is the most effective way to encourage them to spread the word about services. We believe that efforts deserve recognition, and that’s why we have a program in place that not only benefits our referred customers but also rewards our team for valuable referrals.

When you refer new customers to Hands N Paws, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks. For the first month they work with us, you’ll receive priority scheduling with them, giving you first dibs on all the new services they request. Additionally, you’ll earn an enticing 25% commission on the client’s first invoice with us!

Elevate Your Pet Care Game: Top Strategies Unveiled

In summary, Hands N Paws thrives in the Columbus, Ohio pet care scene by combining strategic marketing—a commitment to storytelling, personalized interactions, smart networking, and a rewarding referral program. Embracing the StoryBrand framework, we position pet parents as heroes seeking peace of mind, with us as trusted guides. Beyond transactional services, our brand focuses on delivering an intangible outcome—genuine and profound peace of mind.

Our relationship-oriented approach, showcased through practices like genuine interest and remembering pet names, fosters enduring connections. Smart marketing, including varied materials and a strong online presence, sets us apart, while networking in local pet-centric spaces enhances visibility. Our unique referral program recognizes team efforts, providing exclusive perks and enticing commissions for valuable referrals. By adopting these strategies, dog walkers and pet sitters can elevate their roles, connect authentically with pet parents, and become cherished members of their community.

Benny

Benny

Hello! Thanks for visiting our blog. I'm the proud owner of Columbus's own Hands N Paws, started in 2018 to bring joy to pet parents. See you in the next post!

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The terms of this agreement are as follows: “Client” refers to you, “Company” refers to us (Hands N Paws), “Team Member” refers to the person from our team providing services for  your pets, and “Team Members” refers to the Hands N Paws team as a whole.

EMERGENCY VETERINARY TREATMENT & CLIENT RESPONSIBILITY POLICY

It is important to inform Hands N Paws of any specific emergency instructions or medical conditions related to Client’s pets. This will help ensure the safety and well-being of pets during emergencies.

In case any of Client’s pets need emergency veterinary treatment, Team Member will contact the designated vet on file and/or a local emergency vet. Team Member will also communicate with Client and/or emergency contacts regarding the situation.

Client gives permission to Team Member to transport the pet(s) to a veterinary clinic and/or make treatment decisions (except for euthanasia), especially if it’s a life-threatening emergency and/or Client cannot be immediately reached. Client is responsible for any veterinary fees incurred. 

Client releases Hands N Paws from any liability for any damage or harm to pets or property that occurs beyond the reasonable control of Team Member during the provision of emergency veterinary care. 

PET VACCINATION, LICENSING, AND IDENTIFICATION POLICY

To comply with local laws and ordinances, it is required that all pets have the appropriate vaccinations and licenses before Company begins services. For further information on these requirements, please visit the Ohio State Bar Association’s website at https://www.ohiobar.org/public-resources. Client should also check with his/her veterinarian to determine which vaccinations/shots the pet requires. 

For safety reasons, we encourage all dogs and cats to wear an ID tag or collar that includes name and contact number while Team Member is working with them.

SECURE ACCESS & LOCKBOX POLICY

To ensure access to Client’s home during scheduled services, Hands N Paws requires that Client purchases a lockbox and places a spare house key(s) inside of it for Team Member to use. Client can purchase the lockbox on Hands N Paws’ website by clicking Buy Your Lockbox. Once it arrives, the lockbox should be programmed with a unique four-digit code. The lockbox should then be placed on the main door handle or in another secure location, and the lockbox code and location information must be entered in the Client’s account on Precise Petcare.

Alternatively, Client may elect to provide a code for entry via a garage door or electronic keypad and if so, must enter all necessary codes in Precise Petcare. Client is strongly encouraged to purchase a lockbox, however, to ensure that Team Member can access pets at all times during scheduled services, especially in situations where the power goes out or batteries die and Team Member need alternative access to the home.

CLIENT COMMUNICATION & PRIVACY POLICY

All Team Members have access to Clients phone number, but are instructed to only use them when necessary or for urgent purposes during services with pets. Hands N Paws prioritizes the privacy and confidentiality of phone numbers as personal information.

All correspondence between Client and Team Member should be centered around Client’s pets and the services provided. If Client has inquiries regarding scheduling, cancellations, app-related matters, or any company-related concerns, these are to be directed to the Company via the office number: (614) 636-6644. The Company’s client support team is available during office hours, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm. We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays. The Company will make contact with Client outside of office hours should there be any urgent need for communication.

PET INFORMATION ACCURACY & ACCESSIBILITY POLICY

In order to provide the best possible service to pets, it is crucial that Client provides Team Member with detailed and up-to-date information regarding their pets. This information should be accurate, complete, and accessible through the Client’s account in Precise Petcare. Team Members can only work on the basis of the information that is available to them through the Client’s account in Precise Petcare. Likewise, Client acknowledges that the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information they provide directly impacts the quality of the services delivered. Client, therefore, takes full responsibility for any consequences that arise from inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated account information.

FLEXIBLE SERVICE ARRIVAL TIME POLICY

Arrival times for services occur within a two-hour period. Team Members are unable to guarantee exact arrival times due to various factors that may affect scheduling and travel times. To accommodate these considerations, we use time blocks rather than specific times. Client will see this in the dropdown menu when Client selects Arrival Time in the request service form within their Client account.

While Team Members understands that Client may have preferences regarding arrival times, it is essential to acknowledge that Team Members cannot guarantee meeting those specific requests. Flexibility is needed in order for Team Members to accommodate for needs of other Clients on schedule.

SERVICES & PRICING

For the most up-to-date and detailed descriptions on service offerings, please visit our website at www.myhandsnpaws.com.

SERVICE SURCHARGE POLICY

The following service surcharges may apply under certain conditions:

Last Minute Service: A fee of $15 per service will be charged for bookings made with less than 24 hours’ notice.

Holiday Service: A fee of $20 per service will be applied for services provided on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve.

Additional Pets: Base pricing for services includes up to 2 pets. For each additional pet beyond the initial two, an additional fee of $7 per pet will be added.

*Additional fees may apply, as discussed/negotiated between Company and Client. 

SERVICE REQUEST APPROVAL & AVAILABILITY POLICY

Hands N Paws strives to accommodate as many service requests as possible. However, the approval of service requests is subject to the availability of Team Members. Upon submitting a service request, Client will receive a confirmation or declination email/notification indicating whether Hands N Paws can fulfill the requested work. Sometimes, this may take up to 48 hours or more.

If a service request is declined, we encourage Client to explore alternative options or contact our dedicated client support team for further assistance. Company is here to help and find the best solution for all pet care needs.

MEET N GREET POLICY

To ensure a personalized experience for new Clients, Hands N Paws requires a virtual or in-person Meet N Greet before getting started with pet services. These meetings allow us to connect with and onboard Clients and discuss their pet care needs.

All virtual Meet N Greets are free of charge. All in-person Meet N Greets come at a $50 cost. Meet N Greets are no more than 30 minutes in length.

New Clients can book their Meet N Greet on our website at www.myhandsnpaws.com. Existing Clients can book their Meet N Greet in their designated client account in Precise Petcare.

PAYMENT & BILLING POLICY

Payment Method: All services with Hands N Paws are to be paid for using a credit or debit card. All major cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover are acceptable. Client can securely add and store card information within their Client account. Adding and keeping a valid credit card on file is a requirement for requesting any services with Hands N Paws.

Ongoing Services: For services scheduled as ongoing, Client will be automatically charged every Friday for the previous 7 days’ worth of completed, canceled, and in-progress services.

Non-Ongoing Services: For services not scheduled as ongoing, a 50% down-payment will be charged on the day the services are accepted and confirmed. An invoice will be sent immediately. Client has until the date of the last confirmed service to manually pay the remaining balance on the invoice. If manual payment is not made, the remaining total will be automatically charged to the card on file on the date of the last service day on that invoice.

Declined Payments: In the event of a declined auto-charge, Client will be promptly notified. After the first declined charge, Client has a 24-hour grace period to rectify the issue. In the case of a second declined attempt, a late fee of 10% of the invoice total (minimum $10) will be added. Client must be attentive to emails regarding overdue notices.

Payment Terms: Hands N Paws will be paid the agreed-upon amount as discussed, with no exceptions, unless our Cancellation Policy (outlined below) applies and the Client receives a refund in the form of an Account Credit(s). In emergency circumstances, a refund may be issued as transferable credit(s) back to the Client’s card.

Additional Fees: Client may be charged additional fees if Team Members are instructed to, or determine the need to, purchase items for the pet(s) while under the care of Hands N Paws. These items may include pet food or treats, litter or cleaning supplies, transportation to the vet, or emergency expenses for the general care of the pet(s). Hands N Paws and/or Team Member will consult with Client before making any purchases, and will retain and share any receipts as proof of purchase.

SERVICE CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY

When Client schedules services with Hands N Paws, the Company has likely turned down other work so as to devote our time to the work requested from said Client.

Client understands and accepts the Company cancellation/refund policy as outlined below:

– 100% refund is issued as Account Credit if cancellation is made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled service(s).

– 50% refund is issued as Account Credit if cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled service(s).

– NO refund is issued for same-day cancellations/less than 24 hour notice.

PLEASE NOTE: Refunds are NOT transferable. Should Client be eligible to receive an Account Credit (based on terms above), that will be auto-added to his/her account and applied to the very next invoice with us.

SERVICES TERMS

Hands N Paws agrees to provide the services stated in this contract in a reliable, caring, and trustworthy manner. In consideration of these services and as an express condition thereof, Client expressly waives and relinquishes any and all claims against Hands N Paws arising out of or relating to the provision of services hereunder, except those arising from gross negligence or willful misconduct on part of Hands N Paws.

Client understands and acknowledges that the environment in which they are requesting Hands N Paws to complete services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If it is determined that home conditions are unsanitary and/or unsafe at any point in the working relationship, Company will make it known to Client. Action will be taken accordingly thereafter.

Additionally, Hands N Paws will not terminate during a period of scheduled service unless Hands N Paws determines, at their sole discretion, that a serious danger exists to the health or safety of Team Members or pets. If such concerns preclude Hands N Paws from providing further care for the pets, Client agrees to pay for their pet to be boarded at a boarding facility or taken under the care of another party until Client returns. All attempts will be made to notify Client and/or emergency contacts regarding such situations.

Client understands and acknowledges that he/she is responsible for letting Hands N Paws know of anyone who has access to their home during the duration of services booked. Client releases and holds Hands N Paws harmless of all loss, expense, and damage caused by any third-parties entering Client’s home at that time.

CONTRACT TERMS

This contract will take effect upon digital signature by Client (clicking “Agree & Submit” below) and will remain in effect until terminated by either party. Client may make online reservations for additional services at any time during the terms of this contract, as subject to Hands N Paws availability. All scheduled services will be governed by all the terms of this contract.

Client acknowledges that by signing below, he/she is providing written approval for the provision of services by Hands N Paws during any service period scheduled by Client and confirmed by Hands N Paws. Upon service confirmation, Hands N Paws will be authorized to enter Client premises and perform services without additional signed contracts and/or written authorizations.