Starting a business is no small feat, and the first six months have been a whirlwind of challenges, growth, and immense satisfaction. As the founder of Helping Hounds, a dog walking and pet sitting business that donates 15% of its profits to dog rescue, I’ve learned invaluable lessons and experienced the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Here’s a glimpse into my journey.

The Beginning & Overcoming Challenges

The early days of Helping Hounds were tough. Building a business from the ground up requires determination, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your vision. I faced numerous hurdles, from financial risks to the sheer amount of work needed to establish a client base. There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but giving up was never an option.

Building the Business and Client Base

Despite the initial struggles, I managed to build Helping Hounds into a thriving business, earning way over £2000 monthly within six months from dog walking alone. This success didn’t come easy; it was the result of tireless work and countless hours of dedication. So here’s how I built my client base:

Word of Mouth: One of the most effective strategies was encouraging my clients to recommend me to their friends and family. Personal referrals quickly became a significant source of new clients.

Top-Notch Care: Providing exceptional care for every pet was my top priority. This commitment led to glowing reviews and positive testimonials, which helped attract more clients.

Active Marketing: I consistently marketed Helping Hounds by distributing leaflets, posting on local Facebook groups, and advertising weekly. Staying visible in the community was crucial to building my client base.

Finding My Niche and Establishing My Brand: A key factor in my business’s growth was finding my niche and maintaining a clear, consistent brand aligned with my personality and values.

Distinct Identity: Helping Hounds isn’t just a dog walking service; it’s a business with a heart, donating 15% of profits to dog rescue. This aspect resonated with pet owners who wanted to support a business with a cause. A cause close to my heart that grew from the love I have for my two rescue dogs, Millie and Max.

Consistent Marketing: I made sure that all my marketing materials, from social media posts to flyers, reflected the core values of Helping Hounds. This consistency helped build trust and recognition in the community.

Balancing Work and Life: For the first three months, I prioritised work above all else. The long hours and relentless focus were necessary to get Helping Hounds off the ground. While this meant sacrificing personal time, my friends and family were incredibly understanding and supportive of me and my dreams. As the business stabilised, I found a better balance between work, home, and social life. It took time, but I learned how to manage my schedule more effectively, ensuring I could give my best to my clients without burning out. I do not regret those initial months of intense work because they laid the foundation for the success I’m enjoying now.

Looking Ahead

The first six months of running Helping Hounds have been a transformative journey. From overcoming initial challenges to building a loyal client base, every step has been a learning experience. The support from my clients, friends, and family has been invaluable, and their belief in me has fueled my determination.

As I look to the future, I’m excited to continue growing Helping Hounds, expanding our services, and contributing more to dog rescue efforts. The hard work is far from over, but the journey so far has shown me that with passion, perseverance, and a clear vision, anything is possible.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of Helping Hounds’ journey. Your support means the world, and I’m eager to see where the next six months will take us!