Interested in pursuing a business opportunity in the pet industry? There are many enticing reasons to get involved. This booming sector has a huge audience of potential customers, many of whom place a high priority on their pet’s well-being. It also offers the possibility of financial success, and the satisfaction that comes from pursuing a personal passion.

Here’s a look at 10 reasons why joining the pet industry could the right move for you.

  1. It’s booming

According to the American Pet Products Association, pet ownership hit an all-time high in 2016. All of those animals have needs, including daycare, boarding, training, grooming, as well as food and other accessories. With almost 90 million dogs out there, it’s no surprise employment in the pet industry grew by a whopping 90 percent in the 10 years between 2005 and 2015.

  1. Humanization of dogs is driving pet services demand

Several decades ago, some pet owners looked at their dog primarily as a possession. These days, pets are much more likely to be considered part of the family. As such, modern pets tend to receive a higher standard of care and attention, boosting demand for businesses that provide such services.

  1. It’s recession-resistant

When times are tough, consumer spending tends to drop across several sectors of the economy. Some areas often feel the pinch less, and the pet industry is one of them. Many pet parents are more willing to cut costs and eliminate little luxuries elsewhere in their lives before spending less on their beloved dogs

  1. It offers consistency and reliability

Most basic dog needs aren’t seasonal, meaning your business can generally be relied upon to produce the same kind of revenue in the summer as it does in winter. This consistency in customer spending eliminates the need to stock up on product at certain times of year, or survive severe drops in cash flow while your business weathers extended down periods.

  1. Most products and services don’t require a sales pitch

Some business ideas fail to get off the ground or gain traction with customers because they are too complicated to convey the concept, or there’s a serious struggle to create the idea of need for whatever is being offered. This is seldom the case in the pet industry, where pet parents tend to be well-educated when it comes to their dogs needs, and more willing to embrace new products that could improve or enhance their dogs life.

  1. Several new areas of the industry are rapidly expanding

Opportunities for accelerated growth exist in several new areas of the pet industry, particularly when it comes to dogs. From high-end nutrition to canine photography and doggie blogging, a variety of exciting avenues await entrepreneurs interested in joining the pet industry.

  1. Solid, stable franchise opportunities are available

Perhaps you’d like to join the pet industry but would prefer to attach yourself to a recognized brand rather than starting from scratch. No problem – multiple franchise opportunities exist across the sector. Whether you’re interested in providing daycare, obedience training, agility, or something different, you can save time and boost customer awareness by investing in a dependable, established franchise like Dogtopia.

  1. Many jobs don’t require high-level or specialty education

As long as you’re not pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, there are all kinds of job opportunities in the pet industry that don’t demand a post-secondary degree, including some available to job seekers who didn’t finish high school. You can qualify for plenty of other positions by completing a short-term certificate program.

  1. You can be your own boss

If you’re ready to say goodbye to working for someone else and like the sound of being your own boss, there are many different self-employment opportunities available in the pet industry. Create a situation where you set the rules and choose your own path by starting your own pet-based business.

  1. Lifestyle: You get to work with animals

Last but certainly not least, the pet industry allows animal lovers the chance to work in a field they feel good about: providing positive experiences to all kinds of pets and their parents. Spending your days doing something you have a passion for makes the entire work experience more rewarding, increasing personal gratification and boosting overall happiness.

Interested in joining the booming pet industry? Dogtopia is the nation’s fastest growing pet franchise.  For more information on Dogtopia franchising opportunities, visit www.dogtopia.com/franchising.