Happy Trails Until We Meet Again

#24 Types of walkers and sitters to attract to your business AND a chat with Steve

Show Notes Here is the link that I referenced in the session. Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee?  https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee   Publication 15, Employer’s Tax Guide https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15.pdf   EFTPS https://www.eftps.com/eftps/   efile  https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/e-file-form-940-941-or-944-for-small-businesses   authorized IRS e-file providers  https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/e-file-providers-partners/94x-mef-providers

Show Notes Here is the link that I referenced in the session. Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee? <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee</a> Publication 15, Employer’s Tax Guide <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15.pdf</a> EFTPS <a href="https://www.eftps.com/eftps/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.eftps.com/eftps/</a> efile <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/e-file-form-940-941-or-944-for-small-businesses" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/e-file-form-940-941-or-944-for-small-businesses</a> authorized IRS e-file providers <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/e-file-providers-partners/94x-mef-providers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/e-file-providers-partners/94x-mef-providers</a>

#23 Employees or Individual Contractors Part 2

Show Notes   Here is the link that I referenced in the session.    https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee     INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT       This Agreement is between  (hereafter referred to as “The Company”) whose mailing address is  and ____    (hereafter referred to as “The Independent Contractor”), whose primary business address is __________.    This Agreement shall commence as of _//   The Company engages in pet care services and the overall care and sitting for domestic animals. The Independent Contractor represents that he/she is a skilled professional or specialist in the area of pet sitting and pet care. The Company desires to engage The Independent Contractor for certain specific assignments. The Independent Contractor and The Company agree to the following:    RESPONSIBILITIES     The Independent Contractor shall provide the following services for The Company on a non-exclusive basis, including but not limited to:     Dog Walking Cat Sitting Key Pick-up and Drop Off Meet and Greets     The Independent Contractor shall complete all assignments in a timely professional manner consistent with accepted industry standards, and within time frames and fee structures as agreed to for each project.     The Independent Contractor acknowledges The Company’s proprietary interest in any of its clients and agrees that neither The Independent Contractor nor his/her agents or employees shall disclose any information regarding any clients or business practices of The Company gained through its work with The Company, to any third party, during the term of this Agreement. This Agreement applies to all information presented to The Independent Contractor by The Company or its clients, whether by oral, written, facsimile or material disclosure or electronic transmission, or by any other means.     The Independent Contractor agrees that all assignments produced for The Company shall be considered work-for-hire.     The Independent Contractor shall not obligate The Company at any time by Agreement with any third party in any way.     The Independent Contractor is not an employee of The Company, and may provide services for other clients, and maintains a separate principal place of business.     The Independent Contractor will determine the method, details, and the means of performing the above services. The Company shall have no right to, and shall not control the manner or determine the method of accomplishing The Independent Contractor’s     The Independent Contractor shall perform the services required by this Agreement at any place or location and at such times as The Independent Contractor and The Company have agreed upon. COMPENSATION AND FEES The Independent Contractor shall be paid an agreed-upon fee on an agreed-upon day of the week:   Compensation will be by:  Company Check or  b: Paypal Transfer  All expenses shall be borne by The Independent Contractor except as agreed to in advance, in writing. The Independent Contractor agrees to submit written or emailed invoices for all work performed for The Company, if required by The Company, prior to payment. The Independent Contractor is not entitled to workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment benefits. The Independent Contractor is obligated and assumes full responsibility for payment of any and all federal and state taxes on any monies earned pursuant to this independent contractor Agreement.         Independent Contractor Initials: _  PERIOD OF SERVICE AND TERMINATION  This Agreement shall be in effect for a period of thirty days from the date of its execution. This Agreement will automatically renew if The Independent Contractor continues to do work for The Company after the expiration date. This Agreement may be terminated by either party, Without Cause, upon five (5) days written or emailed notice to the other party, or With Cause, immediately upon material breach of any terms of this Agreement by either of the parties. The Independent Contractor may, at his/her sole discretion, decline to provide services to The Company’s Clients or potential Clients. If The Independent Contractor declines to provide services to any of The Company’s Client, The Company, at its own discretion, may terminate this Agreement at will.    MISCELLANEOUS 1.       All work produced for The Company by The Independent Contractor shall be considered work-for-hire, and the exclusive property of The Company. When final payment for contract work is made to The Independent Contractor, all rights in all forms are the sole property of The Company in perpetuity.  The Independent Contractor will not solicit, contract with, or join in with The Company’s clients, for a period of one (1) year from the date of expiration or termination of this Agreement, without the express written consent of The Company. The Independent Contractor agrees that he/she will not impair the business relationship between The Company and its Clients or prospective clients, in any way.     This Agreement shall constitute the complete Agreement between The Independent Contractor and The Company, and no representations or promises, oral or written, have been made except as agreed to in writing.     If any part of this Agreement shall become invalid, such portion shall be severed and the remainder of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. Neither this Agreement nor any duties or obligations under this Agreement may be assigned by either party without prior written consent of both parties to this Agreement.  INDEMNIFICATION The Company and The Independent Contractor agree to defend and indemnify each other and their agents for all damages they may suffer, including legal fees and expenses, resulting acts of or from representations based upon any information, either written or oral, provided by the other or by the omission of any material information. JURISDICTION AND ATTORNEYS’ FEES Each party hereto consents to the jurisdiction of the Courts of the State of  and the terms and provisions of the Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of .  If any provision in this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will nevertheless continue in full force without being impaired or invalidated in any way.   If any action at law or in equity, including an action for declaratory relief, is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement, the prevailing party will be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees, which may be set by the court in the same action or in a separate action brought for that purpose, in addition to any other relief to which that party may be entitled.   Agreed on this date: ____  ________ _______ Signature: __________   _______ Signature: ___

Show Notes Here is the link that I referenced in the session. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee</a> INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT   This Agreement is between (hereafter referred to as “The Company”) whose mailing address is and ____    (hereafter referred to as “The Independent Contractor”), whose primary business address is __________.  This Agreement shall commence as of _// The Company engages in pet care services and the overall care and sitting for domestic animals. The Independent Contractor represents that he/she is a skilled professional or specialist in the area of pet sitting and pet care. The Company desires to engage The Independent Contractor for certain specific assignments. The Independent Contractor and The Company agree to the following: <ol> <li>RESPONSIBILITIES</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor shall provide the following services for The Company on a non-exclusive basis, including but not limited to:</li> </ol> <ul> <li>Dog Walking</li> <li>Cat Sitting</li> <li>Key Pick-up and Drop Off</li> <li>Meet and Greets</li> </ul> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor shall complete all assignments in a timely professional manner consistent with accepted industry standards, and within time frames and fee structures as agreed to for each project.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor acknowledges The Company’s proprietary interest in any of its clients and agrees that neither The Independent Contractor nor his/her agents or employees shall disclose any information regarding any clients or business practices of The Company gained through its work with The Company, to any third party, during the term of this Agreement. This Agreement applies to all information presented to The Independent Contractor by The Company or its clients, whether by oral, written, facsimile or material disclosure or electronic transmission, or by any other means.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor agrees that all assignments produced for The Company shall be considered work-for-hire.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor shall not obligate The Company at any time by Agreement with any third party in any way.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor is not an employee of The Company, and may provide services for other clients, and maintains a separate principal place of business.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor will determine the method, details, and the means of performing the above services. The Company shall have no right to, and shall not control the manner or determine the method of accomplishing The Independent Contractor’s</li> </ol> <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor shall perform the services required by this Agreement at any place or location and at such times as The Independent Contractor and The Company have agreed upon.</li> <li>COMPENSATION AND FEES</li> <li>The Independent Contractor shall be paid an agreed-upon fee on an agreed-upon day of the week:</li> </ol>  Compensation will be by: <ol> <li>Company Check or</li> </ol> b: Paypal Transfer <ol> <li>All expenses shall be borne by The Independent Contractor except as agreed to in advance, in writing. The Independent Contractor agrees to submit written or emailed invoices for all work performed for The Company, if required by The Company, prior to payment.</li> <li>The Independent Contractor is not entitled to workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment benefits. The Independent Contractor is obligated and assumes full responsibility for payment of any and all federal and state taxes on any monies earned pursuant to this independent contractor Agreement.         Independent Contractor Initials: _</li> </ol> PERIOD OF SERVICE AND TERMINATION <ol> <li>This Agreement shall be in effect for a period of thirty days from the date of its execution. This Agreement will automatically renew if The Independent Contractor continues to do work for The Company after the expiration date.</li> <li>This Agreement may be terminated by either party, Without Cause, upon five (5) days written or emailed notice to the other party, or With Cause, immediately upon material breach of any terms of this Agreement by either of the parties.</li> <li>The Independent Contractor may, at his/her sole discretion, decline to provide services to The Company’s Clients or potential Clients. If The Independent Contractor declines to provide services to any of The Company’s Client, The Company, at its own discretion, may terminate this Agreement at will.</li> </ol>   MISCELLANEOUS 1.       All work produced for The Company by The Independent Contractor shall be considered work-for-hire, and the exclusive property of The Company. When final payment for contract work is made to The Independent Contractor, all rights in all forms are the sole property of The Company in perpetuity. <ol> <li>The Independent Contractor will not solicit, contract with, or join in with The Company’s clients, for a period of one (1) year from the date of expiration or termination of this Agreement, without the express written consent of The Company.</li> <li>The Independent Contractor agrees that he/she will not impair the business relationship between The Company and its Clients or prospective clients, in any way.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>This Agreement shall constitute the complete Agreement between The Independent Contractor and The Company, and no representations or promises, oral or written, have been made except as agreed to in writing.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>If any part of this Agreement shall become invalid, such portion shall be severed and the remainder of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.</li> <li>Neither this Agreement nor any duties or obligations under this Agreement may be assigned by either party without prior written consent of both parties to this Agreement.</li> </ol> INDEMNIFICATION The Company and The Independent Contractor agree to defend and indemnify each other and their agents for all damages they may suffer, including legal fees and expenses, resulting acts of or from representations based upon any information, either written or oral, provided by the other or by the omission of any material information. JURISDICTION AND ATTORNEYS’ FEES Each party hereto consents to the jurisdiction of the Courts of the State of and the terms and provisions of the Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of .  If any provision in this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will nevertheless continue in full force without being impaired or invalidated in any way. If any action at law or in equity, including an action for declaratory relief, is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement, the prevailing party will be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees, which may be set by the court in the same action or in a separate action brought for that purpose, in addition to any other relief to which that party may be entitled. Agreed on this date: ____ ________ _______ Signature: __________ _______ Signature: ___

#22 Employees or Individual Contractors, Part 1

Taking on additional help to your solo operation will be a big deal, whether you take on one or two assistants who can help you when you’re ill or on a vacation, or whether you take on additional people to address a growing clientele. When considering taking on additional help, you’ll have to decide whether that help will be employees or individual contractors. Here are the links that I referenced in the session.  https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee  https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/FAQ-IndepContractorsvsEmployees.pdf  http://www.diffen.com/difference/Employee_vs_Independent_Contractor As always, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me an email at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com and ask your questions, offer your comments OR tell me that you’d like to be interviewed by me on an upcoming session. Ray, the Dog Walker

Taking on additional help to your solo operation will be a big deal, whether you take on one or two assistants who can help you when you’re ill or on a vacation, or whether you take on additional people to address a growing clientele. When considering taking on additional help, you’ll have to decide whether that help will be employees or individual contractors. Here are the links that I referenced in the session. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee</a> <a href="https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/FAQ-IndepContractorsvsEmployees.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/FAQ-IndepContractorsvsEmployees.pdf</a> <a href="http://www.diffen.com/difference/Employee_vs_Independent_Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> http://www.diffen.com/difference/Employee_vs_Independent_Contractor</a> As always, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me an email at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com and ask your questions, offer your comments OR tell me that you’d like to be interviewed by me on an upcoming session. Ray, the Dog Walker

#21 Let's Grow Your Business

On this Christmas Day Eve, I want to send to all you dog walkers and pet sitters … those of you who are established in business and those of you who are still thinking about it … a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah, a Merry Quansa and a joyous Festivus. If you celebrate some other holiday at this time of the year, my wishes to you as well. If you’re already in business, you’ll surely be getting plenty of holiday gifts in the form of food and gift cards. Be sure to thank your customers. And for your customers who didn’t leave anything for you, send them a cheery holiday greeting as well. For those of you who are still planning on getting into this business, it’s time to get off your butts and get this show moving! There’s nothing better than a New Year’s Resolution to take your destiny into your own hands. Happy Holidays you wonderful, wonderful animal lovers!

On this Christmas Day Eve, I want to send to all you dog walkers and pet sitters … those of you who are established in business and those of you who are still thinking about it … a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah, a Merry Quansa and a joyous Festivus. If you celebrate some other holiday at this time of the year, my wishes to you as well. If you’re already in business, you’ll surely be getting plenty of holiday gifts in the form of food and gift cards. Be sure to thank your customers. And for your customers who didn’t leave anything for you, send them a cheery holiday greeting as well. For those of you who are still planning on getting into this business, it’s time to get off your butts and get this show moving! There’s nothing better than a New Year’s Resolution to take your destiny into your own hands. Happy Holidays you wonderful, wonderful animal lovers!

#20.5 Short Happy Holidays Greeting

Mary Oberdier

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’m going to talk to Mary Oberdier, the owner of Chase’n Tails Pet Care, LLC in Manatee County, Florida.   If you’d like to get in touch with Mary, you can email her at: chasentails@yahoo.com   or go to her website: www.chasentailspetcare.com/   Finally, you can also catch her on her Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ChasenTailsPetCareLlc   Chase’n Tails Pet Care’s business telephone number is: 941-447-9528   If you want to contact Mary, please be respectful of her time. She is a professional working hard at her business.   Drop me an email at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com and ask your questions, offer your comments OR tell me that you’d like to be interviewed by me on an upcoming session.

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’m going to talk to Mary Oberdier, the owner of Chase’n Tails Pet Care, LLC in Manatee County, Florida. If you’d like to get in touch with Mary, you can email her at: <a href="mailto:chasentails@yahoo.com">chasentails@yahoo.com</a> or go to her website: <a href="http://www.chasentailspetcare.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.chasentailspetcare.com/</a> Finally, you can also catch her on her Facebook page at: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ChasenTailsPetCareLlc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/ChasenTailsPetCareLlc</a> Chase’n Tails Pet Care’s business telephone number is: 941-447-9528 If you want to contact Mary, please be respectful of her time. She is a professional working hard at her business. Drop me an email at <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a> and ask your questions, offer your comments OR tell me that you’d like to be interviewed by me on an upcoming session.

#20 Conversation with Mary Oberdier, owner of Chase’n Tails Pet Care, LLC

I’ve been collecting these Random Thoughts since I started this podcast over a year ago. I kept them in my notes with the idea of incorporating them into their own sessions but I soon learned that they don’t carry enough weight on their own to warrant full sessions by themselves. They are important enough, however to be aired somewhere. That somewhere is here.

I’ve been collecting these Random Thoughts since I started this podcast over a year ago. I kept them in my notes with the idea of incorporating them into their own sessions but I soon learned that they don’t carry enough weight on their own to warrant full sessions by themselves. They are important enough, however to be aired somewhere. That somewhere is here.

#19 Random Thoughts

Darrell Kelton

Javier Vega

Today I’ll be talking with two friends who over a period of time decided that they wanted to be in control of their own destinies. You’ll hear how Darrell Kelton and Javier Vega carefully planned their business, Leash Dog Care, how they then quit their regular jobs and how then jumped head first into this business without any regrets. Business: Leash Dog Care Owners: Darrell Kelton andJavier Vega Location: Boston, MA Bus Phone: 617-294-9455 Website: www.leashdogcare.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/leashdogcare Twitter @leashdogcare Instagram @leashdogcare

Today I’ll be talking with two friends who over a period of time decided that they wanted to be in control of their own destinies. You’ll hear how Darrell Kelton and Javier Vega carefully planned their business, Leash Dog Care, how they then quit their regular jobs and how then jumped head first into this business without any regrets. Business: Leash Dog Care Owners: Darrell Kelton andJavier Vega Location: Boston, MA Bus Phone: 617-294-9455 Website: <a href="http://www.leashdogcare.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.leashdogcare.com</a> Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/leashdogcare" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/leashdogcare</a> Twitter @leashdogcare Instagram @leashdogcare

Darrell Kelton and Javier Vega Interview

When it comes to money, making it is only part of the problem. Retaining as much as you can, is the other part of it. I think that we all know this, but what we often don’t realize in time is that there are a number of financial obligations that we have to pay, whether we want to or not. Often those bills come at the most inopportune time.  That inopportune time when money is needed most for dog walkers and pet sitters is often during income tax time AND when our annual insurance and bonding payments are due.  Until you get more experience with your expenditures, set aside 22% of everything that you make. That should keep you out of trouble.

When it comes to money, making it is only part of the problem. Retaining as much as you can, is the other part of it. I think that we all know this, but what we often don’t realize in time is that there are a number of financial obligations that we have to pay, whether we want to or not. Often those bills come at the most inopportune time.  That inopportune time when money is needed most for dog walkers and pet sitters is often during income tax time AND when our annual insurance and bonding payments are due.  Until you get more experience with your expenditures, set aside 22% of everything that you make. That should keep you out of trouble.

#17 Managing Some Of Your Business’ Money

These sessions of "How To Start and Operate a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business" will take you from the very beginning, when you're only thinking about starting this business, to organizing it and finally to the point where you will collect your fees in checks or credit card payments.

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’ll talk to you about how you can adjust your business to accommodate a shifting customer base, especially during the summer when many customers order a temporary service stoppage.

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’ll talk to you about how you can adjust your business to accommodate a shifting customer base, especially during the summer when many customers order a temporary service stoppage.

#16 Adjusting Your Business to a Changing Market

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’ll introduce you to your first dog walking job. Listen to how I suggest that you approach your first dog walking or pet sitting job. I’ll walk you through your initial preparations through the time that you close the door and leave for your next job. Comments, questions and critiques can be left at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’ll introduce you to your first dog walking job. Listen to how I suggest that you approach your first dog walking or pet sitting job. I’ll walk you through your initial preparations through the time that you close the door and leave for your next job. Comments, questions and critiques can be left at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com

#15 Your First Dog Walk or Pet Sit

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’m going to chat with Amanda Krom, the owner of Amanda’s Paw Pals in HIGGANUM, Connecticut.   Amanda’s Paw Pals at www.amandaspawpals.com Also look for Amanda’s Paw Pals on Facebook

In this session of “How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business,” I’m going to chat with Amanda Krom, the owner of Amanda’s Paw Pals in HIGGANUM, Connecticut. Amanda’s Paw Pals at <a href="http://www.amandaspawpals.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.amandaspawpals.com</a> Also look for Amanda’s Paw Pals on Facebook

# 14 Conversation with Amanda Krom the owner of Amanda's Paw Pals

Listen to how Ally Mayer, the owner of The Waggly Tail started her business. Great chat! If you’d like to get in touch with Ally or learn more about The Waggly Tail, please visit her website at www.thewagglytail.com. For your daily dose of cute pet pics, follow her on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/thewagglytail) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thewagglytailllc/).

Listen to how Ally Mayer, the owner of The Waggly Tail started her business. Great chat! If you’d like to get in touch with Ally or learn more about The Waggly Tail, please visit her website at <a href="http://www.thewagglytail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thewagglytail.com</a>. For your daily dose of cute pet pics, follow her on Facebook (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/thewagglytail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/thewagglytail</a>) and Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/thewagglytailllc/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thewagglytailllc/</a>).

#13 Conversation with Ally Mayer, the owner of The Waggly Tail

Customer Relations is the process of keeping your customers happy and keeping them from fleeing to your competition. Although Customer Relations is the third leg of the three-legged customer development process, after Marketing and Sales, in my opinion, it is THE most important leg. My six Principles of Customer Relations:  Do your job well Be accessible Query your customers about how you’re doing IMMEDIATELY address any problems and make them good Offer extra, free services that your customer did not expect Clean up after yourself  If you haven’t done so yet, please subscribe to this podcast and LIKE it. To do so, go to iTunes and look for this podcast by searching for “How To Start and Operate a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business.” Once you find it, please LIKE the podcast. Finally, would you like to talk to me about your plans or questions about this business? If so, please email me at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com. I’d like to talk to you over Skype and if you agree, put our talk on an upcoming session of “How To Start and Operate a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business.” I think it’ll be a blast for both of us. Don’t worry if you haven’t done anything to start your business yet. As long as you’re interested in it and you have some questions or comments, I’d like to talk to you. Ray

Customer Relations is the process of keeping your customers happy and keeping them from fleeing to your competition. Although Customer Relations is the third leg of the three-legged customer development process, after Marketing and Sales, in my opinion, it is THE most important leg. My six Principles of Customer Relations: <ol> <li>Do your job well</li> <li>Be accessible</li> <li>Query your customers about how you’re doing</li> <li>IMMEDIATELY address any problems and make them good</li> <li>Offer extra, free services that your customer did not expect</li> <li>Clean up after yourself</li> </ol> If you haven’t done so yet, please subscribe to this podcast and LIKE it. To do so, go to iTunes and look for this podcast by searching for “How To Start and Operate a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business.” Once you find it, please LIKE the podcast. Finally, would you like to talk to me about your plans or questions about this business? If so, please email me at <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a>. I’d like to talk to you over Skype and if you agree, put our talk on an upcoming session of “How To Start and Operate a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business.” I think it’ll be a blast for both of us. Don’t worry if you haven’t done anything to start your business yet. As long as you’re interested in it and you have some questions or comments, I’d like to talk to you. Ray

#12 Customer Relations

This is a short, special call to action session where I’m going to ask you for a favor.Whether you’ve been listening to this podcast with the possibility of one day starting this business, or whether you followed along and actually started your business, step by step, OR whether you’re already an established dog walker and pet sitter who’s looking to hear what another dog walker has to say, I’d love to hear from you.Send an email to dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com and let me know a little bit about yourself … whether you’re an established dog walker; whether you’re still thinking about it … whether you have specific questions. Let me know whether you have Skype or ooVoo.

This is a short, special call to action session where I’m going to ask you for a favor.Whether you’ve been listening to this podcast with the possibility of one day starting this business, or whether you followed along and actually started your business, step by step, OR whether you’re already an established dog walker and pet sitter who’s looking to hear what another dog walker has to say, I’d love to hear from you.Send an email to <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a> and let me know a little bit about yourself … whether you’re an established dog walker; whether you’re still thinking about it … whether you have specific questions. Let me know whether you have Skype or ooVoo.

Special Call To Action

Session 11 – Sales   Sales is the process of convincing those people who know about your business through your marketing, to hire you.   Sales Literature: + Who Am I – A brief description of yourself + Services Offered – Discussion of your services and their prices + FAQs – Facts about your services and your business   Closing a sale is the process of getting a Prospect to agree to pay for your services and become your Customer.   Sales Principles Customers will always make decisions based on their self-interest. Customers prefer a good deal over a fair deal.   When making your presentation, explain, educate and answer questions.   The Presumptive Sales Technique pushes the meeting closer to an agreement by having you talk to your prospect as if he was already your customer.   Another principle of Sales is that you have to CLOSE a prospect at least THREE times, meaning that you have to ask for the job at least THREE times before it registers with the prospect.   If the Presumptive Sales Technique fails, Close your prospect by Asking for the Job.   Don’t fear rejection … remember, it’s not personal if it comes; it’s just business, and even if you do your presentations correctly, you will loose a few jobs.   Advanced Sales Techniques: + MIRROR your prospect’s speech tempo; do NOT imitate your prospects dialect or accent. + Include both parties in your presentation. + Determine who the dominant person in the decision-making team is by placing your business card equidistant between both parties. The dominant person will pick up the card. + Determine if your prospect is an A-Type or B-Type Person and adjust your presentation accordingly           ++ A-Type wants the Big Picture; just the facts, please           ++ B-Type wants all the facts; detail oriented   Preparing for your Meet-And-Greet: + DO NOT BE LATE; arrive 3 to 5 minutes early + Memorize your prospect’s name as well as that of the pet + Dress appropriately; clean dog walking attire + Wear Clean Shoes + Pull the prospect towards you by stepping backwards as the door opens + Pay attention to the pet + Bring treats for the pet; ask first + Take notes + After the Meet-And-Greet, immediate email a Thank You note.   Good luck!

Session 11 – Sales Sales is the process of convincing those people who know about your business through your marketing, to hire you. Sales Literature: + Who Am I – A brief description of yourself + Services Offered – Discussion of your services and their prices + FAQs – Facts about your services and your business Closing a sale is the process of getting a Prospect to agree to pay for your services and become your Customer. Sales Principles Customers will always make decisions based on their self-interest. Customers prefer a good deal over a fair deal. When making your presentation, explain, educate and answer questions. The Presumptive Sales Technique pushes the meeting closer to an agreement by having you talk to your prospect as if he was already your customer. Another principle of Sales is that you have to CLOSE a prospect at least THREE times, meaning that you have to ask for the job at least THREE times before it registers with the prospect. If the Presumptive Sales Technique fails, Close your prospect by Asking for the Job. Don’t fear rejection … remember, it’s not personal if it comes; it’s just business, and even if you do your presentations correctly, you will loose a few jobs. Advanced Sales Techniques: + MIRROR your prospect’s speech tempo; do NOT imitate your prospects dialect or accent. + Include both parties in your presentation. + Determine who the dominant person in the decision-making team is by placing your business card equidistant between both parties. The dominant person will pick up the card. + Determine if your prospect is an A-Type or B-Type Person and adjust your presentation accordingly           ++ A-Type wants the Big Picture; just the facts, please           ++ B-Type wants all the facts; detail oriented Preparing for your Meet-And-Greet: + DO NOT BE LATE; arrive 3 to 5 minutes early + Memorize your prospect’s name as well as that of the pet + Dress appropriately; clean dog walking attire + Wear Clean Shoes + Pull the prospect towards you by stepping backwards as the door opens + Pay attention to the pet + Bring treats for the pet; ask first + Take notes + After the Meet-And-Greet, immediate email a Thank You note. Good luck!

#11 Sales

In this session of How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business, I’m going to introduce you to the very important topic of Marketing. Marketing is the process of letting the buying public … potentially your customers … know that you’re in business as well as what your business is all about. I recommend that you sign up with www.thumbtack.com. Go to https://www.craigslist.org/about/sites#US and find the particular craigs list that is closest to you. For quality printing at a reasonable price go to www.vistaprint.com Start a free website with Blogger at www.blogger.com Keep sending me your questions and comments to  dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com or go to the dogwalkerpodcast facebook page at www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast and leave your comments or questions there.

In this session of How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business, I’m going to introduce you to the very important topic of Marketing. Marketing is the process of letting the buying public … potentially your customers … know that you’re in business as well as what your business is all about. I recommend that you sign up with <a href="http://www.thumbtack.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thumbtack.com</a>. Go to <a href="https://www.craigslist.org/about/sites#US" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.craigslist.org/about/sites#US</a> and find the particular craigs list that is closest to you. For quality printing at a reasonable price go to <a href="http://www.vistaprint.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.vistaprint.com</a> Start a free website with Blogger at <a href="http://www.blogger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.blogger.com</a> Keep sending me your questions and comments to  <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a> or go to the dogwalkerpodcast facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast</a> and leave your comments or questions there.

#10 Marketing

In this session of How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business, I'm going to talk to you about book keeping and accounting.  1. Daily Service Calls Service Calendar     Monday, January 04, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F)   9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F)   10:30 AM Customer 3 (M, W, F)   11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F)   1:00 PM Customer 5 (Tu, Th)       Tuesday, January 05, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F)   9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F)   11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F)   1:00 PM Customer 5 (Tu, Th)       Wednesday, January 06, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F)   9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F)   10:30 AM Customer 3 (M, W, F)   11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F)       Thursday, January 07, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F)   9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F)   1:00 PM Customer 5 (Tu, Th)       Friday, January 08, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F)   9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F)   10:30 AM Customer 3 (M, W, F)   11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F)   2. Customer Payments   Client Rec'vd Check # Amount Tot Earn Jan Customer 1 01/04/16 #2778 $100.00 $100.00   Customer 2 01/04/16 #2031 $100.00 $200.00   Customer 3 01/04/16 #154 $60.00 $260.00   Customer 4 01/04/16 #1713 $100.00 $360.00   Customer 5 01/04/16 #3654 $40.00 $400.00     Balance Forward $0.00       Ch # 2778 $100.00   Fee Customer 1 (M-F) Total Credit $100.00   $20.00   Monday, January 11, 2016 $80.00 √ $20.00   Tuesday, January 12, 2016 $60.00 √ $20.00   Wednesday, January 13, 2016 $40.00   $20.00   Thursday, January 14, 2016 $20.00   $20.00   Friday, January 15, 2016 $0.00   $20.00   3. Running Totals of Customer Payments Client 2016 Cum Customer 1 $100.00 Customer 2 $100.00 Customer 3 $60.00 Customer 4 $100.00 Customer 5 $40.00   Then next time Customer 1 pays you another $100 for the following week’s of walks, add that $100 to the existing $100 to make it $200 in the 2016 Cum (for Cumulative) column. Do that for every customer and you’ll see how much each one of your customers pays you over time.   4. Monthly Income   Jan (1) Feb (2) Mar (3) Apr (4) May (5) Jun (6) Sub-Total 2016 $400.00        $400.00                   Jul (7) Aug (8) Sep (9) Oct (10) Nov (11) Dec (12) Total 2016          $400.00   Using our example of 5 customers who pay you a total of $400 per month, you can use this simple set-up to track your monthly income as well as your 6-month midpoint income as well as your annual income. As your business grows, your monthly income will grow along with it.   5. Running Total Income and Tax burden Tot Earn 32% Taxes Taxes $100.00 $32.00 $32.00 $200.00 $32.00 $32.00 $260.00 $19.20 $51.20 $360.00 $32.00 $83.20 $400.00 $12.80 $96.00   These cells should be added at the end of the cells of 2. Customer Payments above. I’m using the formula that you will have to pay around 32% of your income to State and Federal tax agencies. This will allow you to set aside in your savings account the amount of money that you should pay quarterly. If you pay your taxes on April 15, the IRS will charge you an interest rate for not having paid your quarterly taxes on time. 6. Expenses by Category    Expenses                      Date Vendor Purpose Account Amount Sls Tax Totals 1/4/2016 Vendor 1 2 leashes 20b Equip $25.00 $1.50 $26.50 1/6/2016 Vendor 2 Off Supplies 18 Off Supp $43.64 $2.62 $46.26 In this example I’m noting that I’ve made two business expenditures. I’ve noted the actual amounts with a separate notation for the Sales Tax which you’ll be able to deduct from your income taxes. Note that I’ve used the IRS 1040, Schedule C designations in the Account column, namely 20b and 18. You can do this if you have a Schedule C in your files for a reference. This will make it easier at tax time to itemize your deductions. You’ll add up all of your #20b expenses and then your #18 expenses as well as all of your other expenses and include those sums in your Schedule C. It’s much simpler than it sounds, really!  Internet sources cited in this session … dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast Google “free basic accounting and bookkeeping courses online” https://www.irs.gov/ http://www.gnucash.org/ www.turbotax.com/

In this session of How To Start and Manage a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business, I'm going to talk to you about book keeping and accounting. 1. Daily Service Calls Service Calendar Monday, January 04, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F) 9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F) 10:30 AM Customer 3 (M, W, F) 11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F) 1:00 PM Customer 5 (Tu, Th) Tuesday, January 05, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F) 9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F) 11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F) 1:00 PM Customer 5 (Tu, Th) Wednesday, January 06, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F) 9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F) 10:30 AM Customer 3 (M, W, F) 11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F) Thursday, January 07, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F) 9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F) 1:00 PM Customer 5 (Tu, Th) Friday, January 08, 2016 9:00 AM Customer 1 (M-F) 9:45 AM Customer 2 (M-F) 10:30 AM Customer 3 (M, W, F) 11:15 AM Customer 4 (M-F) 2. Customer Payments Client Rec'vd Check # Amount Tot Earn Jan Customer 1 01/04/16 #2778 $100.00 $100.00 Customer 2 01/04/16 #2031 $100.00 $200.00 Customer 3 01/04/16 #154 $60.00 $260.00 Customer 4 01/04/16 #1713 $100.00 $360.00 Customer 5 01/04/16 #3654 $40.00 $400.00 Balance Forward $0.00 Ch # 2778 $100.00 Fee Customer 1 (M-F) Total Credit $100.00 $20.00 Monday, January 11, 2016 $80.00 √ $20.00 Tuesday, January 12, 2016 $60.00 √ $20.00 Wednesday, January 13, 2016 $40.00 $20.00 Thursday, January 14, 2016 $20.00 $20.00 Friday, January 15, 2016 $0.00 $20.00 3. Running Totals of Customer Payments Client 2016 Cum Customer 1 $100.00 Customer 2 $100.00 Customer 3 $60.00 Customer 4 $100.00 Customer 5 $40.00 Then next time Customer 1 pays you another $100 for the following week’s of walks, add that $100 to the existing $100 to make it $200 in the 2016 Cum (for Cumulative) column. Do that for every customer and you’ll see how much each one of your customers pays you over time. 4. Monthly Income Jan (1) Feb (2) Mar (3) Apr (4) May (5) Jun (6) Sub-Total 2016 $400.00 $400.00 Jul (7) Aug (8) Sep (9) Oct (10) Nov (11) Dec (12) Total 2016 $400.00 Using our example of 5 customers who pay you a total of $400 per month, you can use this simple set-up to track your monthly income as well as your 6-month midpoint income as well as your annual income. As your business grows, your monthly income will grow along with it. 5. Running Total Income and Tax burden Tot Earn 32% Taxes Taxes $100.00 $32.00 $32.00 $200.00 $32.00 $32.00 $260.00 $19.20 $51.20 $360.00 $32.00 $83.20 $400.00 $12.80 $96.00 These cells should be added at the end of the cells of 2. Customer Payments above. I’m using the formula that you will have to pay around 32% of your income to State and Federal tax agencies. This will allow you to set aside in your savings account the amount of money that you should pay quarterly. If you pay your taxes on April 15, the IRS will charge you an interest rate for not having paid your quarterly taxes on time. 6. Expenses by Category Expenses Date Vendor Purpose Account Amount Sls Tax Totals 1/4/2016 Vendor 1 2 leashes 20b Equip $25.00 $1.50 $26.50 1/6/2016 Vendor 2 Off Supplies 18 Off Supp $43.64 $2.62 $46.26 In this example I’m noting that I’ve made two business expenditures. I’ve noted the actual amounts with a separate notation for the Sales Tax which you’ll be able to deduct from your income taxes. Note that I’ve used the IRS 1040, Schedule C designations in the Account column, namely 20b and 18. You can do this if you have a Schedule C in your files for a reference. This will make it easier at tax time to itemize your deductions. You’ll add up all of your #20b expenses and then your #18 expenses as well as all of your other expenses and include those sums in your Schedule C. It’s much simpler than it sounds, really!  Internet sources cited in this session … <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast</a> Google “free basic accounting and bookkeeping courses online” <a href="https://www.irs.gov/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.irs.gov/</a> <a href="http://www.gnucash.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.gnucash.org/</a> <a href="http://www.turbotax.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.turbotax.com/</a>

#9 Accounting

Veterinary Release Form Veterinarian Name: Address: Phone #: To the Veterinarian – Hospital  has been contracted to pet sit for my pet(s) and has my permission to place them in your care in case of an emergency.  will attempt to contact me as soon as medical care is deemed necessary. However, in the event I cannot be reached immediately, I authorize you to treat my pet(s) and will be responsible for payment of any fees as stated below. Please file this form with my records.   Pet Owner: Address: Phone – email: Pet(s):  If above-named veterinarian is not available, I agree that another vet in his/her practice may care for my pets. If neither of these veterinarians are available, I give permission for  to take my pet(s) to the nearest animal hospital or emergency clinic.     I give permission for  to approve treatment up to $_______. (Initial ______)     I understand that  assumes no responsibility for the loss of any pet and is released from all liability related to transportation, treatment and expense.     Other conditions, if any:    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Tools of the Trade   Shoes Sole inserts Clothing White for summer Darker for colder weather Shorts T-Shirt or short-sleeve shirt Hat with sun visor Sweatband Sunglasses Long Pants Long sleeve shirt Jacket with hood Stocking hat Ear muffs Gloves Scarf Handkerchief Towel for self Fanny Pack Carabiner with cord for keys Smart phone Storage clip board Extra blank forms Dog treats Extra pens Binder for daily forms &amp; keys Brief case Pens Business cards Poopie bags Leashes Double Leashes Extra collars Facemask Shoe Covers Towel for pets Portable vacuum cleaner Rug shampoo Garbage bags Pet poop spray Air freshener Dog and cat treats in containers Lunch on ice in Igloo Camping cutlery More than enough to drink, preferably water Thermos of coffee or tea Baby Wipes, non alcohol Tissues Umbrella or poncho Bucket for wet umbrella or poncho Small bucket with plastic bag for trash Various plastic bins to store equipment Knife or scissors Bicycle rear-view clip-on mirror for glasses First aid kit Can of wasp spray for protection Automobile needs Plastic signs for car Computer with printer and internet connection Email Word processor Spreadsheet Filing cabinet Hanging files with manila folders Calculator Label maker

Veterinary Release Form Veterinarian Name: Address: Phone #: To the Veterinarian – Hospital has been contracted to pet sit for my pet(s) and has my permission to place them in your care in case of an emergency. will attempt to contact me as soon as medical care is deemed necessary. However, in the event I cannot be reached immediately, I authorize you to treat my pet(s) and will be responsible for payment of any fees as stated below. Please file this form with my records. Pet Owner: Address: Phone – email: Pet(s): <ol> <li>If above-named veterinarian is not available, I agree that another vet in his/her practice may care for my pets. If neither of these veterinarians are available, I give permission for to take my pet(s) to the nearest animal hospital or emergency clinic.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>I give permission for to approve treatment up to $_______. (Initial ______)</li> </ol> <ol> <li>I understand that assumes no responsibility for the loss of any pet and is released from all liability related to transportation, treatment and expense.</li> </ol> <ol> <li>Other conditions, if any:</li> </ol> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tools of the Trade Shoes Sole inserts Clothing White for summer Darker for colder weather Shorts T-Shirt or short-sleeve shirt Hat with sun visor Sweatband Sunglasses Long Pants Long sleeve shirt Jacket with hood Stocking hat Ear muffs Gloves Scarf Handkerchief Towel for self Fanny Pack Carabiner with cord for keys Smart phone Storage clip board Extra blank forms Dog treats Extra pens Binder for daily forms &amp; keys Brief case Pens Business cards Poopie bags Leashes Double Leashes Extra collars Facemask Shoe Covers Towel for pets Portable vacuum cleaner Rug shampoo Garbage bags Pet poop spray Air freshener Dog and cat treats in containers Lunch on ice in Igloo Camping cutlery More than enough to drink, preferably water Thermos of coffee or tea Baby Wipes, non alcohol Tissues Umbrella or poncho Bucket for wet umbrella or poncho Small bucket with plastic bag for trash Various plastic bins to store equipment Knife or scissors Bicycle rear-view clip-on mirror for glasses First aid kit Can of wasp spray for protection Automobile needs Plastic signs for car Computer with printer and internet connection Email Word processor Spreadsheet Filing cabinet Hanging files with manila folders Calculator Label maker

#8 Tools of the Trade

I have been learning so much from this podcast. Everything I’ve learned have been a essential component to expanding my businessz

Addictive

I learned so much from this wonderful man!  Anyone who talks the time to educate future pet sitters and dog walkers to the degree that he has has got to be a great guy!  Thanks Ray!!

President MistyLk LLC

How To Start and Operate a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business

3 Let’s Set Up Your Business    Choosing a company name choose a name that defines your business quickly stay away from personal names that are more ego driven than business smart unless you have "Dog Walking" and/or "Pet Sitting as part of the name Women's names seem to work best Highlight the business; minimize the name Dog Walking and Pet Sitting is more important than the actual name Important for magnetic signs on car log in to your state’s Corporation Commission confirm that your company name is unique if not, you must choose another name   Apply for and immediately receive an IRS EIN log onto IRS website  1.http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&amp;-Self-Employed/How-to-Apply-for-an-EIN  DO NOT use non-IRS websites to apply for EIN After completing the EIN application, EIN will be generated immediately    III. Legally organize your company  log onto IRS website for discussion about business structures http://www.irs.gov/uac/Choosing-a-Business-Structure Sole Proprietorship       No legal filings; no special requirements      You have no legal protection if you're ever sued  I do not recommend remaining a Sole Proprietor C-Corporation used by large companies with stockholders double taxation strict business requirements not suggested for our type of business S-Corporation can be used by small businesses pass-through taxation still has strict business requirements Limited Liability Company (LLC) perfect for small businesses pass-through taxation not very strict business requirements ideal for our type of business file with your state’s corporation commission can pay LegalZoom or IncFile.com to do this easy to do by yourself log onto your state’s corporation commission located page to apply for LLC answer all questions must have legal company name handy               iii. afterwards pay application and filing fee  use credit or debit card    Leave questions or comments at dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com Or post same on dogwalkerpodcast Facebook page Or on dogwalkerpodcast.com website.

3 Let’s Set Up Your Business <ol> <li>Choosing a company name</li> <li>choose a name that defines your business quickly</li> <li>stay away from personal names that are more ego driven than business smart</li> <li>unless you have "Dog Walking" and/or "Pet Sitting as part of the name</li> <li>Women's names seem to work best</li> <li>Highlight the business; minimize the name</li> <li>Dog Walking and Pet Sitting is more important than the actual name</li> <li>Important for magnetic signs on car</li> <li>log in to your state’s Corporation Commission</li> <li>confirm that your company name is unique</li> <li>if not, you must choose another name</li> </ol> <ol> <li>Apply for and immediately receive an IRS EIN</li> <li>log onto IRS website</li> </ol> 1.<a href="http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&amp;-Self-Employed/How-to-Apply-for-an-EIN" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&amp;-Self-Employed/How-to-Apply-for-an-EIN</a> <ol> <li>DO NOT use non-IRS websites to apply for EIN</li> <li>After completing the EIN application, EIN will be generated immediately</li> </ol> III. Legally organize your company <ol> <li>log onto IRS website for discussion about business structures</li> <li><a href="http://www.irs.gov/uac/Choosing-a-Business-Structure" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.irs.gov/uac/Choosing-a-Business-Structure</a></li> <li>Sole Proprietorship</li> </ol>      No legal filings; no special requirements      You have no legal protection if you're ever sued <ol> <li>I do not recommend remaining a Sole Proprietor</li> <li>C-Corporation</li> <li>used by large companies with stockholders</li> <li>double taxation</li> <li>strict business requirements</li> <li>not suggested for our type of business</li> <li>S-Corporation</li> <li>can be used by small businesses</li> <li>pass-through taxation</li> <li>still has strict business requirements</li> <li>Limited Liability Company (LLC)</li> <li>perfect for small businesses</li> <li>pass-through taxation</li> <li>not very strict business requirements</li> <li>ideal for our type of business</li> <li>file with your state’s corporation commission</li> <li>can pay LegalZoom or <a href="http://IncFile.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IncFile.com</a> to do this</li> <li>easy to do by yourself</li> <li>log onto your state’s corporation commission</li> <li>located page to apply for LLC</li> <li>answer all questions</li> <li>must have legal company name handy</li> </ol>              iii. afterwards pay application and filing fee <ol> <li>use credit or debit card</li> </ol> Leave questions or comments at <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a> Or post same on dogwalkerpodcast Facebook page Or on <a href="http://dogwalkerpodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">dogwalkerpodcast.com</a> website.

3 Let’s Set Up Your Business

#4 More Business Stuff    Set up your professional email account Does your state require you to collect sales or use taxes? Check the Tax Foundation (http://taxfoundation.org) for information Contact your state’s revenue or tax department Ask them if dog walkers need to collect sales or use taxes       Apply for your business license No need for a federal business license May need county and/or incorporated city business license May need business license in every county and city that you work in   Search the Small Business Administration (SBA) website for business license information https://www.sba.gov/category/navigation-structure/starting-managing-business/starting-business/obtain-business-licenses-   Google “where to apply for a business license in ” Odds are that your state will not require a business license for a dog walking – pet sitting business – check the SBA site   Contact your county’s or city’s tax assessment office that you’re going to work in Ask them if a license for dog walking – pet sitting is required May need a separate license for each county and incorporated city that you are going to work in   Set up a business checking and savings account Credit Unions are better suited for small businesses than banks If you can’t find a local credit union that you can join, read US News and World for a list of credit unions that everyone can join http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2015/02/10/credit-unions-anyone-can-join.   To search for credit unions near you, search … www.culookup.com and www.asmarterchoice.org   With Wallet Hub Credit Union Locator, you can enter your location, your employer, your church, your school and your volunteer information, and it will show you which credit unions you’re eligible to join. https://wallethub.com/credit-unions/   Another good site site which lists 82 credit unions that you should look at if you can’t find a local one. https://www.depositaccounts.com/blog/the-big-list-of-credit-unions-open-to-anyone.html   Compare fees and ask whether they have deposit apps for your smart phone   PayPal Recognized internationally as a legitimate financial transaction service between buyers and sellers Customers can transfer money from their PayPal account to yours Customers can pay with all major credit cards through PayPal Customers don’t need to have a PayPal account to pay with their credit cards   Can use PayPal to invoice customers To start your free business PayPal account log in to their website https://www.paypal.com/webapps/mpp/referral/paypal-business-account2   Please leave comments and/or questions at … dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast      

#4 More Business Stuff <ol> <li>Set up your professional email account</li> <li>Does your state require you to collect sales or use taxes? <ol> <li>Check the Tax Foundation (<a href="http://taxfoundation.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://taxfoundation.org</a>) for information</li> <li>Contact your state’s revenue or tax department <ol> <li>Ask them if dog walkers need to collect sales or use taxes</li> </ol> </li> </ol> </li> </ol> <ul> <li>Apply for your business license <ol> <li>No need for a federal business license</li> <li>May need county and/or incorporated city business license <ol> <li>May need business license in every county and city that you work in</li> </ol> </li> <li>Search the Small Business Administration (SBA) website for business license information <ol> <li><a href="https://www.sba.gov/category/navigation-structure/starting-managing-business/starting-business/obtain-business-licenses-" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sba.gov/category/navigation-structure/starting-managing-business/starting-business/obtain-business-licenses-</a></li> </ol> </li> <li>Google “where to apply for a business license in ” <ol> <li>Odds are that your state will not require a business license for a dog walking – pet sitting business – check the SBA site</li> </ol> </li> <li>Contact your county’s or city’s tax assessment office that you’re going to work in <ol> <li>Ask them if a license for dog walking – pet sitting is required</li> <li>May need a separate license for each county and incorporated city that you are going to work in</li> </ol> </li> <li>Set up a business checking and savings account <ol> <li>Credit Unions are better suited for small businesses than banks</li> <li>If you can’t find a local credit union that you can join, read US News and World for a list of credit unions that everyone can join <ol> <li><a href="http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2015/02/10/credit-unions-anyone-can-join" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2015/02/10/credit-unions-anyone-can-join</a>.</li> </ol> </li> <li>To search for credit unions near you, search … <ol> <li><a href="http://www.culookup.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.culookup.com</a> and <a href="http://www.asmarterchoice.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.asmarterchoice.org</a></li> </ol> </li> <li>With Wallet Hub Credit Union Locator, you can enter your location, your employer, your church, your school and your volunteer information, and it will show you which credit unions you’re eligible to join. <ol> <li><a href="https://wallethub.com/credit-unions/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://wallethub.com/credit-unions/</a></li> </ol> </li> <li>Another good site site which lists 82 credit unions that you should look at if you can’t find a local one. <ol> <li><a href="https://www.depositaccounts.com/blog/the-big-list-of-credit-unions-open-to-anyone.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.depositaccounts.com/blog/the-big-list-of-credit-unions-open-to-anyone.html</a></li> </ol> </li> <li>Compare fees and ask whether they have deposit apps for your smart phone</li> </ol> </li> <li>PayPal <ol> <li>Recognized internationally as a legitimate financial transaction service between buyers and sellers</li> <li>Customers can transfer money from their PayPal account to yours</li> <li>Customers can pay with all major credit cards through PayPal <ol> <li>Customers don’t need to have a PayPal account to pay with their credit cards</li> </ol> </li> <li>Can use PayPal to invoice customers</li> <li>To start your free business PayPal account log in to their website <ol> <li><a href="https://www.paypal.com/webapps/mpp/referral/paypal-business-account2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.paypal.com/webapps/mpp/referral/paypal-business-account2</a></li> </ol> </li> <li>Please leave comments and/or questions at … <ol> <li><a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">facebook.com/dogwalkerpodcast</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </li> </ol> </li></ul>

#4 More Business Stuff

 Insurance protects your dog walking and pet sitting business against any covered losses to your business Bonding protects your customers from your business if your business breaches its contract with them.   Google the term, "Insurance companies for dog walkers." Click on the site “Pet Sitting Insurance USA comparison chart …” at http://petsits.com/petsittinginsuranceusa.htm  Pet Sitters Associates or PSA Pet Sitters International or PSI   Acceptable coverage for Bodily Injury or Property Damage: $1 million for each occurrence $2 million general aggregate $1 million personal injury $2 million aggregate limit $100,000 Fire Legal Damage limit $15,000 each occurrence for loss of pets in your care with a $30,000 aggregate $1,000 each occurrence for veterinary expenses with a $5,000 aggregate $10,000 each occurrence for loss of personal property with an aggregate of $25,000 including a surety bond $2,000 for lost key and re-keying costs of a customer’s home. $5,000 Medical expenses   Staying Out Of Trouble Make sure that you have the house key before you leave on your walk. Carefully open and close outside doors because some dogs and cats are escape artists. Don't cruise the customer's home; don’t go where you have no business going because you may be monitored. Don't use a customer's bathroom unless it's an emergency You don't know the possible state of disrepair of the toilet Customers generally don't like it when strangers use their toilets.   Get an owners instructions and permissions in writing, including feeding, medication, treats, bringing in the mail, etc.   Send your emails to dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com   

<ol> <li>Insurance protects your dog walking and pet sitting business against any covered losses to your business</li> <li>Bonding protects your customers from your business if your business breaches its contract with them.</li> </ol> <ul> <li>Google the term, "Insurance companies for dog walkers." <ol> <li>Click on the site “Pet Sitting Insurance USA comparison chart …” at <a href="http://petsits.com/petsittinginsuranceusa.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://petsits.com/petsittinginsuranceusa.htm</a> <ol> <li>Pet Sitters Associates or PSA</li> <li>Pet Sitters International or PSI</li> </ol> </li> <li>Acceptable coverage for Bodily Injury or Property Damage: <ol> <li>$1 million for each occurrence</li> <li>$2 million general aggregate</li> <li>$1 million personal injury</li> <li>$2 million aggregate limit</li> <li>$100,000 Fire Legal Damage limit</li> <li>$15,000 each occurrence for loss of pets in your care with a $30,000 aggregate</li> <li>$1,000 each occurrence for veterinary expenses with a $5,000 aggregate</li> <li>$10,000 each occurrence for loss of personal property with an aggregate of $25,000 including a surety bond</li> <li>$2,000 for lost key and re-keying costs of a customer’s home.</li> <li>$5,000 Medical expenses</li> </ol> </li> <li>Staying Out Of Trouble <ol> <li>Make sure that you have the house key before you leave on your walk.</li> <li>Carefully open and close outside doors because some dogs and cats are escape artists.</li> <li>Don't cruise the customer's home; don’t go where you have no business going because you may be monitored.</li> <li>Don't use a customer's bathroom unless it's an emergency <ol> <li>You don't know the possible state of disrepair of the toilet</li> <li>Customers generally don't like it when strangers use their toilets.</li> </ol> </li> <li>Get an owners instructions and permissions in writing, including feeding, medication, treats, bringing in the mail, etc.</li> </ol> </li> <li>Send your emails to <a href="mailto:dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com">dogwalkerpodcast@gmail.com</a> </li> </ol> </li></ul>

#5 Insurance and Bonding, and more

The single most important document that you will have in your business will be your service agreement. It and only it spells out in detail the scope of your business. Your Service Agreement memorializes the agreement between you and your customer. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE AGREEMENT   This Service Agreement is between  and the Client, ___________________ for pet care services beginning on (start date) _______ and thereafter on an as-needed basis. PET CARE AND PAYMENT  Pet care services will be provided at the following rate: _______.  Rates for subsequent services are subject to change. The Client authorizes  to perform pet care services as outlined in the Client Information, Pet Information, and Veterinary Release forms, which shall become part of this Service Agreement. Prior to any future pet care services, the Client agrees to notify  of any changes to the information on these forms. Emergency care: In the event that the pet(s) being cared for require immediate medical attention,  will attempt to contact the Client prior to obtaining emergency care. However, Client agrees that  has the authority to act in the pet’s best interest even if this means seeking medical attention prior to notifying the Client. The Client agrees to reimburse  for any additional fees and/or expenses that have been incurred while tending to emergency or veterinary care. Inclement weather/Natural disaster/Act of war: In the event of inclement weather, natural disaster, or act of war  is entrusted to use its best judgment in caring for the Client’s pet(s) and home. The Client recognizes that in the event of inclement weather, natural disaster, or act of war  reserves the right to alter its services that are outlined in this agreement. Personal Emergency: In the event of a personal emergency or illness of the pet sitter, the Client authorizes  to arrange for another qualified person to fulfill the agreed upon responsibilities as set forth in this Service Agreement. The Client will be notified in such a case. Key Policy: The Client agrees to provide  with one (1) entry key which will be returned upon the completion of the contracted services. The Client may agree to allow  to keep their key(s) on file in a secure location for future services. Locksmith: The Client gives  the authority to use the services of a locksmith in the event of a malfunction of the lock, keys, or automatic door opener. The Client also agrees to reimburse  within 7 days of the Client’s return for all costs incurred, and to hold  harmless for any consequences related to the activities of the locksmith.  will attempt to contact the Client prior to obtaining any locksmith services. Payment: The Client agrees to make payment in the full price at the time of the first visit. Extra Services: Any charges for any unplanned services will be due within 7 days of completion of those unplanned services. An invoice for any additional charges (including receipts) will be left at the Client’s home upon completion of those unplanned services. Confirmation: The Client agrees to call  prior to leaving in order to confirm the departure day and time, and again upon returning home to let  know that the pets are safe. If the Client expects to arrive home earlier or later than planned,  must be notified as soon as possible.  LIABILITY    agrees to provide the services in a caring and responsible manner. The Client waives and relinquishes any and all claims against Christine’s Pets, LLC except in the case of proven negligence. The Client agrees to notify  of any concerns related to any agreed-upon services within 24 hours of returning home. Emergency Contact: The Client agrees to provide  with contact information where he/she can be reached while away. The Client will also provide a name and phone number of someone who is authorized to handle any major problems that may arise. If the Client or the designated contact person cannot be reached in a timely manner, the Client agrees to accept any decision  makes in regards to pet care or the Client’s property. Visitors: If anyone will be entering the Client’s home while it is under  care, the Client agrees to notify  in advance.  will not enter an occupied home if  has not been previously made aware of any visitors. Similarly, unless  receives instructions from the Client,  will not grant access to the home to any visitors.  will not be held responsible for any damages incurred to the Client’s home or to the pet(s) by any visitors. It is understood that anyone with access to the home will be notified of  presence and vice versa. The police will be called, without exception, on all intruders or suspicious acts. Outdoor Access:  will not be held liable for the well being or actions of any pet with unsupervised access to the outdoors. Aggressive Pets: If a pet has a history of biting or other aggressive behavior,  reserves the right to refuse or cancel its service. The Client will be liable for the pet sitter’s medical expenses and/or damages that are the result of an animal bite or injury due to the pet’s aggressive behavior. Vaccinations: The Client agrees to provide  with proof of current vaccinations for all pets. Should the dog walker or the pet sitter be bitten or otherwise exposed to any disease or ailment received from the Client’s animal(s), the Client agrees to pay all the costs and damages incurred. Future Services: The Client authorizes this signed Service Agreement to be valid for future services without additional signed Service Agreements or written authorization, other than changes in the pricing that may be negotiated with the Client.  The Client states that he/she has read this entire agreement, and he/she understands and agrees to its terms and conditions.   ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­____________________________   ______________________________ Client                                 Date                Date

The single most important document that you will have in your business will be your service agreement. It and only it spells out in detail the scope of your business. Your Service Agreement memorializes the agreement between you and your customer. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE AGREEMENT This Service Agreement is between and the Client, ___________________ for pet care services beginning on (start date) _______ and thereafter on an as-needed basis. PET CARE AND PAYMENT <ol> <li>Pet care services will be provided at the following rate: _______.  Rates for subsequent services are subject to change.</li> <li>The Client authorizes to perform pet care services as outlined in the Client Information, Pet Information, and Veterinary Release forms, which shall become part of this Service Agreement. Prior to any future pet care services, the Client agrees to notify of any changes to the information on these forms.</li> <li>Emergency care: In the event that the pet(s) being cared for require immediate medical attention, will attempt to contact the Client prior to obtaining emergency care. However, Client agrees that has the authority to act in the pet’s best interest even if this means seeking medical attention prior to notifying the Client. The Client agrees to reimburse for any additional fees and/or expenses that have been incurred while tending to emergency or veterinary care.</li> <li>Inclement weather/Natural disaster/Act of war: In the event of inclement weather, natural disaster, or act of war is entrusted to use its best judgment in caring for the Client’s pet(s) and home. The Client recognizes that in the event of inclement weather, natural disaster, or act of war reserves the right to alter its services that are outlined in this agreement.</li> <li>Personal Emergency: In the event of a personal emergency or illness of the pet sitter, the Client authorizes to arrange for another qualified person to fulfill the agreed upon responsibilities as set forth in this Service Agreement. The Client will be notified in such a case.</li> <li>Key Policy: The Client agrees to provide with one (1) entry key which will be returned upon the completion of the contracted services. The Client may agree to allow to keep their key(s) on file in a secure location for future services.</li> <li>Locksmith: The Client gives the authority to use the services of a locksmith in the event of a malfunction of the lock, keys, or automatic door opener. The Client also agrees to reimburse within 7 days of the Client’s return for all costs incurred, and to hold harmless for any consequences related to the activities of the locksmith. will attempt to contact the Client prior to obtaining any locksmith services.</li> <li>Payment: The Client agrees to make payment in the full price at the time of the first visit.</li> <li>Extra Services: Any charges for any unplanned services will be due within 7 days of completion of those unplanned services. An invoice for any additional charges (including receipts) will be left at the Client’s home upon completion of those unplanned services.</li> <li>Confirmation: The Client agrees to call prior to leaving in order to confirm the departure day and time, and again upon returning home to let know that the pets are safe. If the Client expects to arrive home earlier or later than planned, must be notified as soon as possible.</li> </ol> LIABILITY  <ol> <li> agrees to provide the services in a caring and responsible manner. The Client waives and relinquishes any and all claims against Christine’s Pets, LLC except in the case of proven negligence. The Client agrees to notify of any concerns related to any agreed-upon services within 24 hours of returning home.</li> <li>Emergency Contact: The Client agrees to provide with contact information where he/she can be reached while away. The Client will also provide a name and phone number of someone who is authorized to handle any major problems that may arise. If the Client or the designated contact person cannot be reached in a timely manner, the Client agrees to accept any decision makes in regards to pet care or the Client’s property.</li> <li>Visitors: If anyone will be entering the Client’s home while it is under care, the Client agrees to notify in advance. will not enter an occupied home if has not been previously made aware of any visitors. Similarly, unless receives instructions from the Client, will not grant access to the home to any visitors. will not be held responsible for any damages incurred to the Client’s home or to the pet(s) by any visitors. It is understood that anyone with access to the home will be notified of presence and vice versa. The police will be called, without exception, on all intruders or suspicious acts.</li> <li>Outdoor Access: will not be held liable for the well being or actions of any pet with unsupervised access to the outdoors.</li> <li>Aggressive Pets: If a pet has a history of biting or other aggressive behavior, reserves the right to refuse or cancel its service. The Client will be liable for the pet sitter’s medical expenses and/or damages that are the result of an animal bite or injury due to the pet’s aggressive behavior.</li> <li>Vaccinations: The Client agrees to provide with proof of current vaccinations for all pets. Should the dog walker or the pet sitter be bitten or otherwise exposed to any disease or ailment received from the Client’s animal(s), the Client agrees to pay all the costs and damages incurred.</li> <li>Future Services: The Client authorizes this signed Service Agreement to be valid for future services without additional signed Service Agreements or written authorization, other than changes in the pricing that may be negotiated with the Client.</li> </ol> The Client states that he/she has read this entire agreement, and he/she understands and agrees to its terms and conditions. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­____________________________   ______________________________ Client                                 Date                Date

#6 The Service Agreement

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