top 10 gifts for dog walkers and pet sitters

Top 10 Gifts To Give Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Clients

What are the top 10 gifts you can give to your pet sitting and dog walking clients?

I've compiled a list of ideas that you can pull from for all occasions, whether it's ​a holiday gift, a special day, or just a friendly "thank you" item.

More...

​In no particular order, here they are:

1.  The Customized Pet Calendar

This is my favorite all-time gift.  ​That's because it accomplishes a variety of goals: it's a great gift in and of itself, it's an excellent "top of mind" marketing tool, it's economical, it works all year long, and it shows your client that you care because it takes some work and time to make.

2.  Customized Pet Products

Similar to the calendar, you can create a variety of products with images of your client's pet on them.  For example:  mugs, pillows, t-shirts and other clothing, bags/purse, etc.  CafePress is an excellent place to get these types of customized items made.  

3.  The Framed Pet Photo

Every pet owner loves pictures of their pet.  Why not get a nice pic that you can print and frame in a 5X7?  It's guaranteed to end up in your client's home somewhere.  Or, put the photo on something out of the ordinary like a magnet, metal print, photostrip, or button from Social Print Studio.

4.  Customized Christmas Ornament​

If you're looking for a Christmas-specific gift, how about an ornament.  I've seen people get an ornament with the pet's name on it as well as where people took an imprint of the dog's paw and then made an ornament out of it.

​5.  Donation In The Name Of Your Client

How about a donation in your client's name (either the human or pet client).  Target the local humane society, rescue group, or ​similar charity.  Maybe they'll even be inspired to make a contribution of their own.

​6.  Pet Art

​Especially for your more "artsy" and creative clients, how about giving them a hand-drawn image of their pet.  You can go on a site like Fiverr to find someone who will draw an image of the pet if you can give them a photo.  This can end up being more photo-realistic or way out there and super abstract.  If you know of a local artist, this is also a way to get a cool gift and support your local community at the same time.

​7.  Pet Apparel

What about something that Fido can wear?  Dogs look cool in a bandana, so how about a custom dog bandana with your company logo/name on it?  ​

8.  Pet Toys

Your clients will love seeing their pets play with the toy you gave them.  Maybe even strike up a deal where you can get some cool toys from a local pet boutique at a discount by offering to give the boutique's card to your client with the gift.  

​9.  Handmade Treats

What pet doesn't love treats?  If you're someone who likes to bake, handmade goodies are always welcomed by your four-legged customers.  Or, is there a local pet bakery you can partner with to buy from?

10.  Free Visits​

What customer doesn't love something for free?  We've had lots of smiles when we tell our customers that their first visit of the year is on us.  This is a great holiday gift that people receive and can use right away.  ​

How about you?​

What gifts do you love giving your clients?  Let us know by leaving a comment below, OK?  ​

About the Author John Reh

John loves animals and business. He put the two together and built a multi-million dollar dog walking/running and pet sitting business with hard work, systems, and great people. He now teaches everything he's learned in the Pet Business Masters! community.

Leave a Comment: