The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd

27/12/2024

🌟 Celebrating Success! 🌟

I’m beyond thrilled to share this incredible review from Odi Bear Pet Care! Watching someone turn their dream into a thriving reality is hands-down the most rewarding part of what I do.

This amazing mentee started her journey with me at the end of 2022, navigating some challenging times but staying determined to make her dream happen. Together, we built a plan that worked for her recovery and her goals, including a soft launch that took the pressure off and allowed her to ease into her new business.

Fast forward to today, and she’s launched her business, hit huge milestones, and is absolutely smashing it in her new career! 🐾 Her dedication, resilience, and positivity have been inspiring to witness, and I’m so proud to have been part of her journey.

If you’ve been thinking about starting or growing your pet care business and need tailored support to make it happen, I’m now looking to take on new mentees for 2025! 🎉 I work with just a few people at a time to ensure you get the maximum guidance and support you need to succeed.

📩 Drop me a message if you’re ready to turn your dream into a reality—you’ve got this, and I’d love to help make it happen!

25/12/2024

I’m so proud of Karen Odi Bear Pet Care it’s been an absolute pleasure mentoring her this past year, she’s An inspiration. Here’s to 2025 🥳

🎄🐾 Merry Christmas from Odi Bear Pet Care! 🎅
This Christmas feels extra special—it’s my very first as the proud owner of Odi Bear Pet Care. 💕
🐕 Launching this business just four months ago has been a dream come true and I couldn’t have done it without all of you:
🐾 Nathan at The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd: Thank you for your invaluable guidance and support. Your advice has helped me turn my passion into a reality, and I’ll always be grateful for your belief in me.
🌟 Mark and Lucy at The Thrive Tribe:
Thank you for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Your encouragement and skills in business bootcamp course has given me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and pursue my dreams.
🐾 My amazing clients: Thank you for trusting me to care for your precious pets.
Every wagging tail, joyful bark and cuddly purr has filled my heart with happiness and brought so much joy to my life.
🌟 My friends, family and followers: Your support has meant everything.
Thank you for your encouragement, for cheering me on and for helping Odi Bear Pet Care grow—it means the world to me.
Here’s to a wonderful festive season and an even brighter New Year. I’m so excited to keep helping your pets feel loved and cared for in 2025.
Merry Christmas and thank you from the bottom of my heart! 🎁🐾💖

22/12/2024

🎄✨ Merry Christmas from The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd! ✨🎄

As the year comes to a close, I just want to take a moment to say a massive THANK YOU to all my incredible mentees. Whether we’ve worked together to launch your dream business, fine-tune your existing setup, or tackle the next big step, it’s been an absolute privilege to be a part of your journey. Your trust means the world to me, and seeing you succeed is the best gift I could ask for! 🎁🐾

To all my followers, supporters, and cheerleaders — thank you for every like, comment, and share. Your encouragement keeps this business (and me!) going strong, and I’m so grateful for every single one of you.

As we look ahead to 2025, I’m so excited to welcome new mentees! Here’s who I’d love to help:
✨ Aspiring dog walkers or pet sitters ready to turn their passion into a thriving business.
✨ Established businesses ready to level up by taking on their first team member or expanding their services.
✨ Dog trainers looking to diversify by adding dog walking or pet sitting to their offerings.

I only take on a small number of mentees at a time to ensure you get the tailored support you deserve. So, if you’re ready to make 2025 your best year yet, let’s chat! 📞

💬 Book a discovery call today and let’s see how we can make your goals a reality. Whether you’re starting from scratch or ready to take things to the next level, I’m here to help every step of the way.

Here’s to an amazing year ahead filled with success, growth, and maybe a few wagging tails along the way. 🐕🎉

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎅🎄

20/12/2024

Celebrating Community and Connection: A Christmas Gathering with Fellow Pet Professionals

Being self-employed often comes with its fair share of challenges, and one of the biggest is how isolating it can sometimes feel. That’s why moments like this—a Christmas meal surrounded by like-minded, passionate, and ethical pet professionals—feel so special.

Earlier today, I had the privilege of sitting down with an amazing group of local pet pros: dog walkers, trainers, groomers, mentors and behaviorists. These ladies are not just colleagues; they’re a true support network, a community of people who understand the highs and lows of what we do. It’s rare to find such a perfect mix of professionalism, shared values, and friendship, and I feel incredibly lucky to know them.

Of course, there were a few people we missed this time, but that’s the beauty of building a strong network—we know they’re always with us in spirit. There’s something magical about coming together, especially during the festive season, to laugh, share stories, and celebrate what connects us: our dedication to animals and the people who love them.

So here’s to all the self-employed pet professionals out there—never underestimate the power of community and connection. It’s what keeps us going when the days are long, and the work is hard. And if you haven’t yet found your “crew,” I promise they’re out there waiting for you.

Merry Christmas from a very lucky pet professional surrounded by the best! 🐶🎄🎅🏽

19/12/2024

Nathan Dunleavy - The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd©️

💙🧡

Hi, I’m Nathan, also known as The Dog Walking Business Mentor! I specialise in helping aspiring pet entrepreneurs turn their passion for animals into thriving businesses. Drawing on over seven years of experience running multi-award-winning pet care companies and a 12-year career in corporate and small business banking, I bring a unique combination of business acumen and industry expertise to my mentoring.

As the Founder and Managing Director of Nathan’s Paw Care Ltd, Nathan’s Paw Trails Ltd, Nathan’s Paw Training Ltd, and The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd, I’ve built a portfolio of successful pet care businesses that achieved a six-figure turnover last year through hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to excellence.

Achievements and Awards:

Pet Care Service of the Year (2023 & 2024) – LUXlife Pet Products & Services Awards
Best Pet Care & Behavioural Services Company 2024 – Southern Enterprise Awards (SME News)
Dog Training Service of the Year – South England Prestige Awards (2021/22, 2022/23 AND 2023/24)
Best Dog Training Business 2021 – Corporate Vision Small Business Awards

My work has also been featured in the Southern Daily Echo and on BBC Radio Solent, reflecting my passion for sharing insights and expertise with a wider audience.

Qualifications and Accreditations:

I’m proud to hold multiple accreditations and certifications, ensuring my clients receive the highest standard of training, care, and mentorship.

These include:
-Accredited/Qualified Dog Trainer and Full Member with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)
-Easy Peasy Puppy Squeezy Qualified Instructor (IMDT)
-Approved Dog Trainer with the Dog Training College (DTC)
-Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behaviour Consultant, trained by Julie Naismith
-Certified and Recognised:
-Canine Body Language Specialist (DTC)
-Puppy Specialist (DTC)
-Canine Reactivity Specialist (DTC)
-Separation Anxiety Specialist (DTC)
-Scentwork Specialist (DTC) & Bronze Scent Detection Instructor (UK Sniffer Dogs)
-Certified Family Dog Mediator (FDM)
Assistance Dog Specialist (DTC)
-KAD Approved Professional (Kids Around Dogs) - School Dog Specialist & Children and Dogs Specialist
-Pet First Aid Certified – DTC (July 2024) and trained personally by renowned RVN Rachel Bean
-Dog Law Certified – DTC (July 2024)
-Currently completing the NICE Level 4 Dog Training Instructor (ATI) exam, preparing for listing on the ABTC register.

My Role in the Pet Professional Network (PPN):

As an affiliate representing The Dog Walking Business Mentor, I’m thrilled to collaborate with the Pet Professional Network (PPN). I’m also part of the admin teams at PPN, NICE (National Institute of Canine Ethics), and Yappily, where I serve as Yappily’s Lead Ambassador and soon-to-be Podcast Director for the upcoming show, "The Yappy Hour".

A Bit About Me:

I describe myself as a multi-award-winning qualified dog trainer, professional dog walker, pet sitter, and certified canine behaviour consultant specialising in separation anxiety. I’m passionate about mentoring, networking, collaboration, and connecting people. Through my mentoring, I empower pet care professionals to launch and grow their businesses with confidence and clarity.
When I’m not working with clients or mentoring, I enjoy spending time with my husband Mark and our seven dogs in Southampton, UK.

I’m a firm believer in the power of community, collaboration and look forward to supporting pet professionals worldwide.

🧡💙

19/12/2024

Code of Ethics for The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd©️🧡💙

As a professional organisation dedicated to supporting dog walkers, pet sitters, and trainers in growing their businesses ethically and responsibly, we uphold the highest standards of care, integrity, and professionalism. By working with The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd, you agree to adhere to the following Code of Ethics:

💙 Commitment to Positive Practices

1. Force-Free Methods: All mentees must commit to using force-free, positive reinforcement, and science-based methods in their work with animals. This includes avoiding the use of aversive tools or techniques such as prong collars, shock collars, or physical punishment.
2. Humane Handling: Treat all animals with respect, compassion, and kindness. Prioritise their well-being, safety, and comfort in every interaction.

🧡 Professional Integrity
3. Transparency: Be honest and clear in all communications with clients, colleagues, and other professionals. This includes accurate representation of qualifications, services, and experience.

4. Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of clients and their pets. Never disclose personal or business information without explicit permission.
5. Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and decisions. Acknowledge mistakes and take steps to correct them promptly and professionally.

💙 Commitment to Growth and Learning

6. Continuous Education: Strive to improve knowledge and skills through ongoing education and professional development in animal behaviour, welfare, and business practices.
7. Ethical Business Practices: Run your business in a lawful and ethical manner, ensuring fair treatment of clients, employees, and animals.

🧡 Animal Welfare First

8. Safety Standards: Prioritise the safety and well-being of animals in your care by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of best practices and adhering to local laws and guidelines.
9. Individualised Care: Recognise that each animal is unique and tailor care and services to meet their specific needs.
10. Advocacy: Promote animal welfare by educating clients and the public on humane, science-based care practices.

💙 Respect for Others

11. Collegiality: Treat other professionals with respect and collaborate when it benefits the animals and clients.
12. No Discrimination: Provide services without prejudice based on race, gender, sexuality, religion, or other characteristics.
13. Professional Boundaries: Maintain appropriate boundaries with clients and their pets, ensuring that all interactions remain professional.

🧡 Commitment to Ethical Mentorship

14. Honesty in Mentorship: Provide honest, constructive feedback and guidance to mentees, fostering their growth while maintaining ethical standards.
15. Supportive Environment: Create a safe and encouraging space for mentees to learn, ask questions, and develop their skills.
16. Alignment with Ethics: Ensure mentees understand and commit to these Code of Ethics as part of their participation in the program.

💙 Agreement

By signing, I affirm my commitment to uphold the Code of Ethics as outlined above and to integrate these principles into my professional practices as a mentee of The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd.

🧡💙

Copyrighted©️

02/12/2024

🚶‍♂️🐾 Calling All Dog Walkers! 🐾🚶‍♀️

Let’s be honest—most of us got into dog walking because we love spending time with dogs, right? The wagging tails, the big puppy grins, the joy of being out in nature… what’s not to love? But the business side of things? The admin, pricing, marketing, finances… not so much. 😅

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could just focus on the dogs and let someone else help with the business stuff,” then guess what? That’s where I come in. 🙋‍♂️

I’m Nathan, aka The Dog Walking Business Mentor. With years of experience running my own successful pet care businesses, I know exactly what it’s like to juggle the fun (hello, doggy adventures!) with the not-so-fun (taxes, marketing plans, pricing strategies). And I’m here to help you make it easier.

Here’s how I can help you:
✅ Fine-tune your pricing so you’re earning what you’re worth
✅ Create systems to manage your time and clients without the stress
✅ Build your brand and attract the right clients
✅ Simplify the boring admin bits so you can focus on walking dogs
✅ Grow your business without losing your sanity (or your love for what you do!)

I’ll guide you step by step, share my own tried-and-tested strategies, and give you the tools to build a business you’re proud of—without letting the “business-y” stuff overwhelm you.

💬 Ready to focus on what you really love—walking dogs—and leave the business headaches behind? Drop me a message, or comment below, and let’s chat about how I can help you build the pet care business of your dreams. 🐕✨

Let’s make your business work for you so you can spend more time doing what you’re passionate about: hanging out with the dogs! 🐾

30/11/2024

Exciting Announcement from The Dog Walking Business Mentor!

I'm thrilled to share that I've joined the Pet Professional Network (PPN) as an Affiliate, representing The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd! This collaboration allows me to support even more dog walkers on their journey to success.

🐾 **A Little About Me**

Hi, I’m Nathan Dunleavy, also known as The Dog Walking Business Mentor! My passion lies in helping aspiring pet entrepreneurs turn their love for animals into thriving, sustainable businesses. With over seven years of experience running multi-award-winning pet care companies and a 12-year career in corporate and small business banking, I bring a unique mix of industry expertise and business know-how to my mentoring.

I wear many hats: dog trainer, professional dog walker, pet sitter, and canine behaviour consultant specialising in separation anxiety. Through mentoring, I empower pet care professionals to launch and grow their businesses with confidence, clarity, and a clear strategy.

Outside of work, I enjoy life in Southampton with my husband Mark and our seven wonderful dogs. I’m a firm believer in community, collaboration, and connection, and I’m excited to contribute to PPN’s mission of supporting pet professionals worldwide.

As the Founder and Managing Director of Nathan’s Paw Care Ltd, Nathan’s Paw Trails Ltd, Nathan’s Paw Training Ltd, and The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd, I’ve built a portfolio of successful pet care businesses that achieved a six-figure turnover last year. I’m looking forward to sharing this journey and my expertise with the incredible members of PPN.

🐾 **My Role with PPN**

As an Affiliate, I’ll be working closely with PPN to offer even more support to dog walkers and pet professionals. Being part of this vibrant community aligns with my passion for networking and mentoring. I’m also proud to be part of the admin teams at PPN, NICE, and Yappily, where I serve as Lead Ambassador and soon-to-be Podcast Director for "The Yappy Hour" podcast.

🐾 **What This Means for You**

Joining PPN as an Affiliate means I’ll be able to provide even more resources, advice, and support to dog walkers, backed by PPN’s incredible community and tools. Together, we aim to turn ripples into waves of positive change in the pet care industry.

🐾 **Thank You, PPN!**

I’m deeply grateful to be part of this inspiring community and to contribute to its mission of creating a stronger, more connected network of pet professionals. At PPN, we believe that collaboration and support are the keys to a thriving industry, and I’m excited to play my part.

'Together we are stronger.'

29/11/2024

🧡💙

26/11/2024

Hey Everyone! 💙🧡

Sign up below with your email address for my ‘5 steps to launching your dog walking or pet sitting business’. ✅

I also promise not to be a spammy whammy in your inbox… 📧

With 5 Steps to Launching Your Dog Walking or Pet Sitting Business, your dream business can become a reality.

24/11/2024

📣 Black Friday is here with Canine Principles! 🐾

From 22nd November to 2nd December 2024, you can enjoy an amazing 30% OFF everything sitewide! 🎉

Whether you’re looking to boost your skills as a pet professional or deepen your knowledge as a devoted dog owner, Canine Principles has something for everyone—courses, resources, and so much more.

💡 Ready to learn?

➡️ Use code BF24 at checkout to claim your 30% discount.
➡️ Explore the site here:

https://www.canineprinciples.com/link/4RoEcM

🐶 Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your learning and your dogs’ happiness! 🐕✨

24/11/2024

I’m showcasing my fab collaborators… 💙🧡

🧠🐶 Exciting Collaboration News with NICE! 🐶🧠

The National Institute For Canine Ethics

Platinum Mentees, this one’s for you—get ready to add some serious knowledge to your toolkit! I’ve collaborated with the fabulous NICE (National Institute of Canine Ethics) to bring you an amazing freebie, and let me tell you, it’s a brainy one.

Here’s the scoop: As part of your Platinum Mentoring Plan, you’ll get a FREE bite-sized course on ‘Canine Neuroscience’ from the highly respected International School for Canine Psychology and Behaviour (ISCP). 🎉

What’s in it for you?
Understanding how dogs really think and process the world around them is a game-changer when it comes to working with our four-legged friends. This course is a brilliant introduction to the fascinating world of canine neuroscience, giving you deeper insight into the doggy mind. 🐾

🌟 Why NICE and ISCP?
NICE is all about promoting ethical practices in the pet care industry, and their collaboration with ISCP brings you top-notch, science-backed education. This course is the perfect way to expand your understanding of canine behaviour and support your professional growth.

👉 How do you access this fantastic freebie?
This exclusive offer is available only to my Platinum Mentees. Not a Platinum member yet? Let’s chat about how this plan can help you elevate your business and knowledge.

So, whether you’re a dog care pro, trainer, or a canine enthusiast, this free course will help you connect with dogs on a whole new level. Who’s ready to dive into the doggy brain? 🧠🐕

23/11/2024

Run, don’t walk – the Tug-E-Nuff Black Friday Sale is here! 🥳💨

This is the absolute BEST deal on the world’s most epic dog toys – so don’t snooze on this paw-some offer! 🐾

As a Tug-E-Nuff partner, I’m thrilled to share an exclusive deal with you: 3 for 2 on all their award-winning toys! 🧸🎉

Ready to snag some joy for your pup? 🐕👇

👉 Shop the Black Friday Sale now!

https://www.tug-e-nuff.co.uk/collections/black-friday?ref=PAWTRAILS

22/11/2024

So, you’re ready to dive into the world of dog walking or pet sitting? First of all, welcome! It’s an exciting (and fur-filled) adventure. But as fun as it sounds, starting a pet care business isn’t all cuddles and wagging tails—there are some common missteps that could trip you up along the way. Luckily, you don’t have to go it alone! I’ve rounded up a list of mistakes I see new pet business owners make and, more importantly, how you can avoid them.

So, you’re ready to dive into the world of dog walking or pet sitting? First of all, welcome! It’s an exciting (and fur-filled) adventure. But as fun as it

22/11/2024

🌟 Black Friday Alert! 🌟

I’m thrilled to share that Canine Principles is offering an incredible 30% off sitewide for Black Friday! 🎉 Whether you’re a dog owner or a pet professional, their courses and resources are absolute gems for deepening your understanding of our canine companions. 🐾

🛍️ When?
📅 From: 22nd November 2024
📅 Until: 2nd December 2024

🎟️ How to claim?
Use code BF24 at checkout to grab your discount!

💻 Check out the amazing range of courses here:

https://www.canineprinciples.com/link/4RoEcM

Invest in knowledge, and your dogs will thank you for it! 🐕✨

21/11/2024

I’m showcasing all of my fab collaborators… 💙🧡

💻🐾Exciting Collaboration Alert! 🐾💻

Calling all Platinum Mentees—this one’s a real game-changer for managing your pet care business like a total pro! I’ve partnered with the brilliant team at Software For Dog Trainers to bring you an exclusive deal that’s too good to miss.

Here’s the deal: Sign up with The Dog Walking Business Mentor, and you’ll get 25% off the sign-up fee for their incredible software! 🎉

Why is this such a big deal? Let me paint a picture for you:
Imagine having all your scheduling, client management, payments, and notes handled in one sleek, easy-to-use system. No more juggling spreadsheets or frantic searching for that one sticky note with the client’s details (we’ve all been there). This software takes the stress out of the admin so you can focus on what you do best—taking care of the dogs! 🐕

🌟 What’s so great about Software for Dog Trainers?
Not only is it designed with dog professionals in mind, but it’s also customisable to suit your business needs. Whether you’re managing a small team or an ever-growing client list, this software will have you feeling like the organised genius you always knew you could be.

👉 How do you claim this exclusive offer?
This 25% discount is only available through my Platinum Mentoring Plan. DM me for all the details or head to Software for Dog Trainers to see how this system can revolutionise your business!

https://www.softwarefordogtrainers.co.uk/sign-up-v2-8104?am_id=nathan313

Because let’s face it, a little help with admin goes a long way toward keeping tails wagging (and yours from wagging in frustration)! 🐾✨

19/11/2024

Guess who’s got a shiny new blog? Yep, it’s me! The Dog Walking Business Mentor Ltd.

We’ve taken the existing one-pager and given it a bit of a glow-up, by adding a whole blog section. That’s right, the once minimalistic site is now a bustling hub of pet care and business wisdom. The first three articles are already up, so go on, have a peek! (Link’s in the comments, you know the drill.)

And that’s the magic of a WUF Design designed website. No pressure to get everything perfect right away—just lay down a solid foundation, and then add to it when inspiration (or, let’s be real, necessity) strikes. Feeling unsure about a feature? No worries, mate! Park it for now and layer it in later. See? Easy as pie, minus the soggy bottom!! lol 😂

Rosie Robinson is your gal! Thank you Rosie 🙏🏻🧡💙