dog walking apprentice

[aj2608]

Hi
Does anyone know of any websites for doggie jobs?
Im looking to earn a bit of extra cash and wanted to do dog walking or something like that.
Im a MATURE 14 year old and have never done anything like it before but am very reliable, trustworthy and currently work with horses.
If anyone knows of anything please let me know as it would be very helpful
Thankyou very much
Amanda

 

[brightmount]

I'm all for 14 year olds with a work ethic, but I can see a couple of problems. Firstly these days, dog walkers need insurance, that's just the way things are in today's litigious society. Secondly, at 14 you don't drive, and most people employing a dog walker expect their dog to be taken into the countryside .. then there is your own safety.

I can only see it working if perhaps you could take old people's dogs round the block on a lead, and this would be a very informal arrangement.

You might be better off advertising your services to dog-owning friends as a dog sitter. I could often use a responsible person such as yourself to look after my dogs in the house when I go out, and there must be many like me.

Alternatively, I know you want to earn a bit of cash, which is understandable, but you might get some voluntary work at local dog sanctuaries, though they may possibly have a minimum age limit. Voluntary experience can be useful later on for careers with animals.

 

[prose]

Times *have* changed. Twenty years ago, I walked three dogs--an English Setter, a beagle, and a Collie mix--for 50p per dog; used to walk for miles, too.

I know I'm in the US now, but my dog walker is affiliated with a larger dog-related business, and is fully insured. I think it's the least people expect. However, when my friend lived in Bristol two years ago, her dog walker was a 14-year-old boy who was incredibly responsible, so you never know.

 

[CAYLA]

Where abouts are u?

 

[aj2608]

Ok thankyou!
I know about the insurance and everything but I would be looking for a more informal job just as a sort of favour but paid!
I'm in Uxbridge, Middlesex.
Keep them coming x

 

[Carys]

Might be worthwhile finding out about local dog training classes where you me be able to go along & meet doggy people & offer help that way- try looking in the local paper or contacting the Kennel Club to see whats on in your area.
Keep trying as you never know what might turn up.

 

[igpodet]

You could try local boarding kennels as well, they very often take on weekend staff, and will train you up as you work! This will also help you make up your mind if it is the sort of job you really want to do. Shovelling pooh , and hosing yards in the pouring rain on Xmas day isn't every ones idea of heaven

Have to say I loved all the years I spent in kennels, thaught me so much about people as well as the dogs!!!

 

[aj2608]

ok thankyoi very much
im currently awaiting a reply for work experience so hopefully that will help
thanks!