Money Makers: DogVacay

I had an opportunity to interview the founders of DogVacay, Aaron and Karine Hirschhorn. DogVacay is a great chance for pet lovers to make some extra money taking care of someone else's pet. 1) What was the driving force behind starting DogVacay? We are a husband wife team who experienced first hand the struggle of finding superior care for our loved ones. Our dogs are like members of the family, and we hated leaving them at an expensive kennel where they would be stuck in a cage all the time. Our friends and family were often unavailable to step in, and we felt there should be more options. We started to offer home dog boarding in our own home. We took in over 100 dogs over the course of nine months. Our clients were so passionate about the quality of care their dogs received that business was booming. We knew we had to make this solution available on a larger scale, and we are thrilled to have found hundreds of professional and amazing pet care providers who offer home dog boarding, walking and other services. Now Dog Vacay can connect dog lovers who want to find or provide home dog boarding and other pet care services. 2) How is it a better alternative to kennels? Home boarding is the new solution to an old problem: figuring out what to do with your dog when you go on vacation. Kennels can be expensive and they often crate your dog all day. Dog Vacay allows dog owners to find a friendly, family home to care for their loved one. We love that home boarding options range from small apartments to expansive ranches with experienced, often vet trained, care providers. Depending on the dog's individual needs, you can find the perfect fit. The greatest advantages are that dogs are able to roam free, rather than be stuck in a crate, they are in a familiar home like environment which is an easier transition than being in a cold, sterile and loud environment, and they have the consistency of one care provider, as opposed to a rotation of staff members. Furthermore, an official partnership with the largest vet group in the country, VCA Antech, a money back guarantee, and a comprehensive insurance plan, mean that dog owners can relax on their travels while their dogs get a vacation of their own. 3) What do potential pet-sitters need to know to get started? To become a host, or offer pet care services, simply go to DogVacay.com, click on Become a Host, and list all your services. You have the freedom to set your own rates, choose which dogs to accept, and when you are available. We want real dog lovers that have the best intentions for the animals in their lives whether it’s a guest dog or a dog they grew up with. We receive thousands of applications but only accept hosts who have experience caring for dogs. Furthermore, our team conducts phone interviews, offers video training testing, checks references and credentials, and provides insurance and emergency veterinary care through a partnership with VCA the largest Veterinary group in the country, giving our hosts all the tools they need to be successful. 4) What do pet-owners need to know about the site? If you are looking for a place for your dog to stay while you're away or other services like dog walking, training, and daycare, simply sign up on DogVacay.com, browse through the profiles of approved hosts, look at photos, read reviews, and book and pay online. You can also book through the concierge via toll free phone number. You can always schedule a meet and greet to check out the home in advance. Rest easy in knowing that once you book through Dog Vacay you are also covered by emergency vet care, insurance, a money back guarantee, and customer support. Plus, our hosts are reminded to send you photo updates of your dog's vacay. We want to give our customers all the tools they need to make the best decision for the care of their loved ones. This is why our team conducts phone interviews, video training testing and checks references and credentials of the hosts and providers in our community. We stand behind creating positive experiences for dogs, and peace of mind for their parents. Furthermore, we know that your dog's idea of a vacation doesn't include margaritas and a chlorinated infinity pool with epic views. Dogs love to play with other socialized dogs, they love to be exercised and be with the pack. The hosts on our site are qualified by us to offer all types of dogs a positive experience. Dogs don't want to be stuck in cages at a kennel all day, they want to be part of a loving home, and get the attention and affection they deserve. Even if your dog has behavioral issues like separation anxiety and aggressive tendencies or if they are just an impressionable puppy, we have many options for you to find the most customized care for your dog. With hundreds of hosts to choose from, you can find a real home for your dog to stay at while you're away. That's an easier and kinder transition for your dog, and a guilt-free, user friendly, and affordable luxury for you.