would anyone hire me?

[marsbar34]

hi my name is jana. and i love dogs and i was wondering weather anyone would hire a 14 year old to be a dog walker or a dog sitter? many thanks xx

[wildwood]

Hi Jana. I like young people who look to earn a few pence themselves rather than hold their hand out to their parents all the time. However, loving dogs is not an adequate qualification for handling dogs. To confidently perform the tasks you are planning you need to get some hands-on experience on handling different dogs and learn to recognise the signs of canine intention.

When you perform a service for reward you are responsible for any damage done to the dogs (fighting etc) and other people, animals and property due to your inability to properly control the dogs.

Have you thought about volunteering your time to a local kennel for a while? Make sure it is a reputable kennel rather than a dog factory. You might even end up doing the walking for that kennel for a small recompence. It is also an excellent way to get recommendations for dog sitting.
Reputable kennels are often willing to help genuine dog people, even when they don't profit from that.

[carmalee]

hi jana -agree with wildwood on 'good for you' to be wanting to do something constructive - good attitude and that's what employers are looking for. however, just be aware of the fact that you maybe won't be able to work (even as a volunteer) because until you are 16 you will not be covered by insurance. i used to manage a well known animal re-homing centre and we were always being asked for 'saturday jobs' for young people. at that time we couldn't use them because of this insurance regulation. possibly a less reputable set up may let you help out but be very careful - you could be letting yourself in for problems. good luck

[happy_face]

It's such a shame how the world has changed. I used to walk the neighbourhood dogs when I was a kid and started around 12 I think. I didn't do it for money just purely because I loved dogs and wasn't allowed to have one myself.
I know have 2 staffies and if it wasn't because they're on the hitlist for dog theft I would happily let anyone walk them. But I just don't feel safe letting anyone else apart from me and other half take them out. I wouldn't have a problem with anyone dog sitting them as long as they behaved in a responsible manner.

Marsbar34 I do hope you find some dogs who will benefit from your love and initiative. I wish you the best of luck

[happy_face]

that was meant to be 'Now have' not 'know'

Gosh my brain has been idle over the xmas hols :-)

[jules77]

I agree with others, and good for you wanting to earn a few pounds while enjoying the company of dogs. I wouldnt pay a dog walker or sitter myself, but many people do. Although I think you would be better contacting some local boarding kennels to see if you can lend a hand there first. What area are you in?