The appeal is clear. Working with animals, having greater flexibility and building something for yourself is a compelling combination. But that initial idea is usually followed by more practical questions. Is it actually viable? Do you need experience? And what does the role really look like once you’re doing it day in, day out?
With demand for professional pet care continuing to grow, more people are exploring the sector – often without a full understanding of what’s involved. Here, Kevin Thackrah, Director of Petpals, discusses the key considerations, common misconceptions and what prospective franchisees should realistically expect before investing in a pet care franchise.
One of the most common concerns is experience. There’s a persistent belief that you need a background in animal care to succeed but, in reality, people enter the sector from all kinds of industries. What matters far more is mindset. Being reliable, calm and genuinely committed to delivering a high standard of care will take you much further than prior experience alone.
The technical side, from handling and behaviour to understanding routines, can be taught. That’s why strong franchise models place such emphasis on training from the outset. At Petpals, franchisees are supported with a structured programme covering animal welfare, first aid, handling skills and the operational side of running a business – alongside access to specialist expertise such as vets and behaviourists.
Another area where expectations don’t always match reality is the day-to-day nature of the role. There is no typical day in pet care. Mornings often begin early with dog walks before clients head to work, followed by a mix of feeding visits, pet sitting and consultations with new customers. Alongside this sits the less visible but equally important side of the business, including managing bookings, responding to enquiries and maintaining customer relationships.
What often surprises people is the level of variety. A successful pet care business is rarely built around a single service. Instead, it combines multiple income streams such as dog walking, pet sitting, home boarding and transport. This not only keeps the role engaging but also creates a more balanced and resilient business model. As the business grows, some franchisees choose to remain hands-on, while others build a team and focus more on managing operations and growth.
There is also a misconception that pet care is purely a lifestyle business. While it offers flexibility, it is underpinned by a strong commercial model. The sector is built on trust and, once that trust is established, customers tend to return regularly – often on a weekly or even daily basis. This repeat business creates consistency and long-term stability.
The key difference lies in how the business is approached. Treat it casually and it will likely remain small. Approach it with structure, professionalism and a clear focus on customer relationships, and it has the potential to grow into something far more substantial.
Starting from scratch is another common concern. This is where franchising offers a clear advantage. Rather than beginning with a blank slate, franchisees benefit from an established brand, defined territory and a proven framework for growth – supported by coordinated marketing activity to help build early momentum.
But one of the most powerful drivers of growth in pet care remains word of mouth. It is a trust-led industry and customers are naturally cautious about who they choose. Delivering a reliable, professional service from the outset is critical, as those early clients often become the strongest source of referrals.
For many, the idea of running a business is another perceived barrier. Prior business experience isn’t essential. A large proportion of franchisees are entering business ownership for the first time and the structure of a franchise is designed to make that transition more manageable, with systems, processes and ongoing support in place.
Ultimately, success comes down to approach. For those prepared to treat it as a business, a pet care franchise can be both a rewarding and commercially viable opportunity. The key is understanding from the outset what’s involved – and recognising it’s not just another franchise, but a different breed altogether.
