DogTech News

Underemployed Fight Back–Couples Discover Dogtech Family Businsess Solution

Underemployed Fight BackCouples Discover Dogtech Family Business Solution

By : Glynna Reynolds

Date: 23 February 2010

The Global Financial Crises has caused millions of talented people in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand to have their working hours reduced, resulting in growing financial pain.

In many cases one or both partners in a marriage or significant relationship have lost their job entirely.

A growing number of these people are solving their employment problems by starting their own business from scratch, or franchising a proven business model.

I recently interviewed Steven Hall, General Manager for Marketing & Business Development of Dogtech International to discuss this trend and discover why couples are finding companies like Dogtech International such an attractive business opportunity & solution to their income problems.

Interview with Steven Hall

GR – Steven, why would underemployed couples consider a Dogtech franchise over starting a business from scratch or one of  the many other franchise business models?

SH – Well Glynna, it really depends on the couple – their income requirements, their individual & combined skill sets; plus very importantly, how they feel about animals – especially dogs!

GR – Obviously, but give our readers the important considerations.

SH – As a straightforward business/income solution, it is about DEMAND for services & products that makes the difference. Many people have lost hours or jobs because demand for their products or services has fallen dramatically during the financial crises.

Real Estate, Retail, Automobile manufacture & sales, Mortgage brokers, Bankers, Advertising, Restaurants, Entertainment, and related industries are all feeling the pain- and experiencing a drop in demand.

The Pet Services Industry Continues to Grow

On the other hand, the Pet Services Industry continues to grow. Americans keep over 77 Million pet dogs – up from 70 Million just a few years ago. Sixty percent of single people in the UK report buying a pet for companionship – 39% of which have replaced their partner with a pet! Approximately 40% of Australian households have a pet dog – probably the highest per capita in the world.

People love their dogs for many reasons,- their dogs love them back unconditionally, they are great companions, they can provide a real sense of security, -and in many cases, they engender a sense of pride.

GR - All interesting points Steven, but how does that translate into a business/income opportunity?

SH – I’m coming to that Glynna. Globally, the Pet Services Industry is a $60Billion per year business – growing around 3% per annum since 1993.

Locally, pet owners regularly buy food, Veterinarian services, equipment, grooming, training, and toys for their dogs. The trend is toward premium brands for all categories.

Dog owners have a set of expectations regarding how their dog should behave.

More importantly, dog owners have a set of expectations regarding how their dog should behave. People want to show their dog off in public, so he/she must know how to walk on a leash properly, not jump-up, not lick or bite other owners or friends – no fighting with other dogs, no unnecessary barking, car chasing, digging,etc.

Just like our children, our dogs don’t automatically know how to behave properly – they have to be trained.

GR – And Dogtech provides the training?

SH – Our Dogtech operators provide training and more.

We run Puppy Schools for new puppies, In-home Puppy set-up consultations, Adolescent Classes for dogs, and In-home Behavior modification/training to fix all those really annoying problems that some dogs develop when the owner and the dog have not learned the secret of communicating with one another.

As well as the training, Dogtech provides books, DVD’s, CD’s, Whisper Wise Training Treats, and premium equipment. Our Franchisees are Pet Services professionals – the people to go to for training or even advice on which Vet or Pet store may be the best for certain problems – Dogtech can be a very rewarding experience – both financially and emotionally.

GR – So there is consistent demand for dog training & products?

There is more need for the service than qualified providers.

SH – Glynna, in most areas where we operate, there is more need for the service than qualified providers. The main reasons our Pounds and Rescue organizations are crowded with abandoned pets is that nice people simply couldn’t cope with the unexpected problems associated with pet ownership — problems that can almost always be sorted out easily and quickly with a Dogtech Instructor. We have a reputation for fast results.

GR – OK, the industry is growing and the demand is there – but what makes Dogtech particularly attractive to couples?

Couples have more ‘together time’ than in other jobs or businesses.

SH - In one word, Lifestyle.

Most of our Franchisees operate from home. This not only saves money, but also provides a lot of flexibility for the family.

Generally one of the partners handles the administration & marketing while the other deals with most of the dog training. Sometimes one partner runs the Puppy Schools & Group Classes while the other provides the In-home behaviour training service.

The main thing is that the business is not a 9 to 5 grind. Customers are seen by appointment – and the franchise operator controls the appointment schedule – They are the bosses. This gives couples & families more ‘together’ time than in other jobs or businesses.

GR – So how many hours a week does the business require?

SH - That’s the best part Glynna.

Dogtech’s emphasis is on Group Classes – Puppy Schools & Adolescent Classes. We are a lifestyle business, – our operators have the potential to earn an excellent income by running well-attended Puppy Schools & Adolescent Classes, which only take a few hours each week and provide a substantial return for time spent.

Adding a couple more days each week taking care of Marketing & In-home appointments, – plus providing clients with exclusive Whisper Wise products – can bring the income into six figures in some cases.

The demand is there – it’s all about time management – and following the Dogtech System, of course.

GR – So Dogtech is time flexible and the money is well above average if operators follow the system. What about long-term financial security?

SH - I think we are all looking for financial security, but the Global Financial Crises has demonstrated there isn’t much security in traditional jobs these days. That’s why so many quality people are currently underemployed – or unemployed.

Couples are building equity in their business.

Owning a Dogtech franchise means you own your own business in a growing industry, with an exclusive area. As couples build up the business, they are not only increasing their revenue, but also increasing the value of the business for the day they may want to sell – say because of health, retirement, – or maybe they want to relocate overseas.

The important thing is couples are building equity in their business — they are the bosses – They are in charge of their own destinies and have a very experienced business partner to help them – Dogtech International.

That said, going into business is not for everyone. It’s important couples are comfortable with the business concept, and confident of their ability to learn & operate the business, have the ability to work together, and can develop the discipline to work for themselves – if you are going to be your own boss, you want to be a good one!

GR – Aren’t couples that have been working for someone else nervous about being in business for themselves?

SH – That’s actually another reason many people — men, women, and couples — join the Dogtech System, — our training and support. We have a simple, proven system that allows Franchisees to become operational very quickly.

We provide the training and support to help our Franchisees set-up their marketing & administration systems, plus learn the secrets of how to communicate with and train dogs using our exclusive Whisper Wise training methods –including puppies, adolescent dogs, and dogs with behaviour issues.

On-going training & support continues throughout the Franchise relationship.

The program is simple, provided you are willing to learn and apply a few new ideas. The on-going training & support continues for the life of the franchise agreement – Dogtech franchisees are in business for themselves, but not by themselves.

GR - All right Steven, I am going to put you on the spot. If Dogtech is such a good business for couples, I would think you would have a lot of couples  operating Dogtech franchises — what is your percentage of couples to individual operators within the Dogtech System?

SH – I guess that depends on how you look at it. In many of our franchises that are operated by people in a relationship, both parties have something to do in the business.

In some, both partners are committed full time; in others one partner may also work in a ‘regular’ job and work the ‘family’ business part time; others divide the child raising/home making duties in various ways and work the ‘family’ business around that.

Dogtech is a family business existing to help families.

Dogtech itself is actually a family business, and the whole concept of the business is to help families communicate better with their dogs — who are mostly considered part of the family!

GR - I see how getting involved with Dogtech could be a solution for both underemployed couples and couples looking for a different lifestyle. If my husband and I wanted to look into Dogtech as a couple, how would we proceed?

SH - It’s really simple, Glynna.

First, you visit the Dogtech International website – www.dogtech.com.au – to familiarize yourselves with what we do – our Services & Products.

Then read about our Founder, John Richardson, author of the best selling books, ‘The Dog Whisperer’ and ‘Whispers of Wisdom’, to gain an understanding of our philosophy, experience, and credentials.

After that, I recommend couples read the Profiles of our Australian franchise operators. Many of them are couples, and we have great people from all walks of life. Pat attention to the Testimonials from very grateful clients- these will help you to understand the importance of the work we do.

Lastly, if you like what you learn, go to the franchise business opportunity section and complete the Franchise Information request.

When we receive your completed request, we will send you a Dogtech Business opportunity pack so you will have enough information to determine if you should go to the next level, which will be a confidential discussion with Dogtech Founder, John Richardson.

Discovering more about Dogtech is as simple as 1,2, 3

So it’s as simple as 1, 2, 3:

  1. Visit the website
  2. Request your information pack
  3. Discuss the opportunity with John Richardson

Once you have spoken to John, you will have a fair idea if Dogtech is for you.

GR - OK , now this really is the final question: A business costs money, how much is a franchise and do you provide any finance?

Dogtech offers In-house finance to approved purchasers.

SH - Important questions, Glynna. The franchise fee depends on the type of franchise and the area. It does require some capital to get into business, but with Dogtech it is modest  compared to other franchises — and insignificant as a percentage of the potential income/return on investment likely to be achieved.

We can assist applicants on how and where to find a business loan or line of credit, plus we offer In-house finance to approved purchasers (TAP).

The most important things are to determine if the business is the right solution for your situation, and you are right for the business. If both of those are right, the money will most likely be available.

GR – Sounds like you have thought of everything. Thank you for your time today, I can see why couples are selecting Dogtech International as a solution to their income & lifestyle challenges.

SH - You’re welcome Glynna. I’ll watch for your Information request form!

___________________________________

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Women Discover Dogtech Business Opportunity

Women Discover Dogtech Business Opportunity– *flexible hours *financial security *rewarding lifestyle

Article by: Glynna Reynolds                                                                                            Date: 7 December 2009

A growing number of women are discovering the advantages of becoming a franchise operator of Dogtech International, one of Australia’s premier franchise companies in the booming pet services sector.

I recently interviewed Steven Hall, General Manager for Marketing & Business Development of Dogtech International to discover why women find Dogtech such an attractive business opportunity.

GR: Steven, why would a smart woman want to consider a Dogtech franchise over the security of a traditional 9 to 5 job, or one of the many other franchise business opportunities available for that matter?

SH: Well Glynna, it really depends on the woman, her life situation, her financial objectives–and of course how she feels about teaching/helping others–plus very importantly, how she feels about animals–especially dogs.

GR: Obviously, but what is the main attraction?

SH: For most women it is the combination of flexible schedule, professional status, personal rewards, and the income potential.

For instance, women with children find it very convenient for them to start their work day after they get the kids off to school, and finish up any outside field work before they pick the kids up from school in the afternoon.

After they get the kids home and settled, they can take care of any paperwork and follow-up phone and website inquiries from home.

GR: So Dogtech is a home based business?

SH: Most of our franchisees operate from home. It not only saves money by not needing to rent expensive commercial space, it may also provide a tax deduction–however, we advise operators to check with their accountant on business tax matters.

GR: So women can work from home and work around children’s school. What about women with no kids, women with partners, and weekends?

SH: Again it depends, but most Dogtech operators do work a few hours on Saturday morning conducting very profitable Puppy schools or Group adolescent classes.

Sometimes they also get involved in a weekend Doggy Day event for a few hours, but remember, they are not tied to an office 9 to 5 on weekdays.

Women with no children obviously have more time available to devote to the business if they choose–and time equals money, so they have the option of generating more income–or pursuing their other interests if they prefer.

As far as women with partners goes, most Dogtech franchisees have partners–but the advantages of a Dogtech lifestyle for couples could be the subject of another entire article!

GR: OK, we will stick with the advantages for women this time. Won’t women miss the social aspects of going to an office or central workplace and being with their workmates every day?

SH: Most of our Dogtech franchisees, both women and men, tell us that one of the things they don’t miss about traditional employment is all the petty office politics, complaining, and bullying that apparently goes on in many workplaces these days. They don’t call it the 9 to 5 GRIND for no reason!

GR: Yes, but what about job satisfaction? Some bosses and workmates give encouragement & emotional rewards for a job well done.

SH: Virtually all of our franchisees–again women and men– tell us the best part of the business is the wonderful feeling they get from helping a stressed-out, frantic dog owner who is being driven crazy by a once adorable dog– that is chewing, barking, jumping, biting, digging–any one of a large number of common doggy problems–learn to communicate effectively with their pet.

The satisfaction of seeing both owner and dog learn their proper roles in the ‘pack’ and gain the ability to live together harmoniously is a rewarding feeling most operators’ value more fully than the money.

GR: Which brings us to the money. Many women I know feel more secure in a regular job. How does Dogtech provide the financial security most women are after?

SH: Glynna, I think we are all looking for financial security, but how much security is there in most traditional jobs these days?                                        During our current Global Financial Crises many people have either lost their jobs or have suffered a reduction in hours–resulting in loss of income and financial security.

Also, these days many firms only want to hire casuals or independent contractors–not much security in that.

By contrast, owning a Dogtech Franchise means you own your business with an exclusive area. As you build up the business you are not only increasing your revenue, but also increasing the value of the business should you ever want to sell it–say because of sickness, retirement–or maybe you just want to move overseas.

The important thing is, like your home, you are developing equity in your business–you are really only renting a job.

That said, going into business is not for everyone. It is important you are comfortable with the business concept and confident of your ability to both learn the business, and develop the discipline to work for yourself successfully. If you are going to be your own boss, you want to be a good one!

GR: I would think many women would be nervous about being in business all by themselves.

SH: That’s another reason both women and men choose Dogtech–our training & support. We have a simple, proven system that allows operators to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves.

We provide the training & support to help our Franchisees set-up their Marketing & Administration Systems, plus learn the secrets of how to train dogs using our exclusive Whisper Wise Training method–including puppies, adolescent dogs, and dogs with behavioural issues.

The Program is simple, provided you are willing to learn and apply a few new ideas.

GR: It all sounds so good I’m thinking of giving up my writing career!. If I was interested, how should I proceed?

SH: Glynna, with your background, you would be an excellent candidate for a Dogtech franchise. That said, we have women and men from all walks of life who have gotten fed up with the rat race and changed their lives using Dogtech as the vehicle. Still others were doing volunteer work within the doggy community and discovered that with Dogtech they could pursue their interest in helping people & pets–and earn a great income in the process.

The way to proceed is really simple:

First, you want to visit the Dogtech International website–www.dogtech.com.au    to familiarise yourself with what we do–our Services & Products.

Then read about our Founder, John Richardson, author of the best selling books, ‘The Dog Whisperer’ and ‘Whispers of  Wisdom’, to gain an understanding of our philosophy, experience, and credentials.

After that, I recommend you read the Profiles of our Australian Franchise operators. You will most likely find several you can relate to–we have great people from all walks of life. Pay attention to the Testimonials from very grateful clients. These will help you understand the importance of the work we do.

Lastly, if you like what you learn, go to the franchise business opportunity section and complete the Franchise Information request.

When we receive your completed form, we will send you a Dogtech Business opportunity pack so you will have enough information to determine if you want to go to the next level, which will be a confidential discussion with Dogtech Founder, John Richardson.

It’s as simple as 1, 2, 3:

  1. Visit the website
  2. Request your information pack
  3. Discuss the opportunity with John Richardson

Once you have spoken with John, you will have a fair idea if Dogtech is for you or not.

GR: OK, –now this is really the final question: A business costs money, how much is a Dogtech franchise and do you provide any finance?

SH: Important questions, Glynna. The franchise fee depends on the type of franchise and the area. It does require some capital to get into business, but with Dogtech it is modest compared to other franchises with comparable profit potential.

We can assist applicants on how and where to find a business loan or line of credit, plus we offer In-house finance to approved purchasers (TAP).

The most important things are to determine if the business is right for you, and you are right for the business. If both of those things are right, the money will most likely be available.

GR: Sounds like you have thought of everything. Thank you for your time today, I can see why more women are discovering Dogtech.

SH: You’re welcome Glynna. I will watch for your Information request form!

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Caution: Summer season may increase your dogs risk of Skin Cancer

Article:

Caution–Summer season my increase your dogs risk of Skin Cancer

Article by:  S. Gregory

As the weather turns hotter, many of us will be spending more time outdoors with our dogs—and many dogs will be home alone in sunny back yards during the work week.

Skin Cancer in Dogs? You may be surprised to learn that skin cancers are the most common tumour in dogs. Most dog owners give very little thought to their dog developing skin cancer because our furry companions are, well–covered in hair–presumably protecting them from the sun.

Dogs & Skin Cancer: The reality is that all dogs have certain areas, such as the nose and the pads of the feet where there is little or no hair. Additionally, dogs with light-coloured or thin coats are more susceptible to sun damage over their entire bodies. While not all dog skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun, most experts agree sun damage to the skin can be a factor.

Skin Cancer Types: There are different types of skin cancer. Three of the most common include:

  1. Malignant melanoma–these tumours are found on areas of the dogs body that have hair. Most malignant melanomas occur on the mouth or mucus membranes, although about 10% of the tome they are found on parts of the body covered in hair.
  2. Squamous cell carcinoma–this form of dog skin cancer, which occurs in the epidermis, is often caused by exposure to the sun. Researchers now believe there may also be a connection between the papilloma virus and the development of squamous cell tumours.
  3. Mast cell tumours–these are the most common skin tumours in canines, occurring in the mast cells of the immune system. The cause of these tumours is unknown, but evidence points to genetic factors as well certain hormones.

Symptoms of Dog Skin Cancer: Symptoms of dog skin cancer generally appear on the skin in the form of lumps, lesions, and infections. Common symptoms that help diagnose doggy skin cancer include:

  • Skin discolouration where the skin becomes black, red, or flaky
  • Fatigue
  • Presence of lumps or sores on the skin
  • Coughing
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Continuous scratching in certain areas
  • Skin problems such as wounds that refuse to heal
  • General loss of interest

Which breeds are at risk? All dogs can get skin cancer, but certain types of cancer occur more commonly in particular breeds:

  • Squamous cell carcinomas tend to appear in dogs that are between six and ten years old. Breeds that  are more likely to get this type include-*Standard Schnauzers *Basset hounds *Collie *Dalmatians *Bull terriers *Beagles. Dogs with short coats are generally more prone to squamous cell carcinomas.
  • Mast cell tumours are commonly seen in Boxers, Boston terriers, Labrador retrievers, Beagles, and Schnauzers.
  • Malignant melanomas on the toe or in the toenail appear most frequently in black dogs.
  • Benign melanomas are associated with *Miniature schnauzers, *Doberman Pinschers, *Airedale Terriers, and *Bay Retrievers

Early detection is the key to successful treatment.

Treatment for dog skin cancer can be successful if detected early. It is essential to keep a check on your dogs behaviour. Frequent bathing and regular grooming will help you spot problems quickly.

Remember, long thick coats can obscure tumours, not prevent the disease. Develop a health check routine with your pet:

  • Examine your dog at lease monthly. Check for tumours, areas of colour change, or scaly/crusty lesions.
  • Separate the hair and look closely at the skin beneath.
  • Finding tumours that bleed easily or areas that refuse to heal is reason for concern
  • Continually licking at an area should prompt closer examination.
  • Check your dogs mouth for masses or tissue that seems different from surrounding areas.
  • Remember to check under the tail for any suspicious limps or areas of discolouration.
  • Swelling in the breast tissue or discharge from a nipple should signal an immediate Veterinary exam.
  • If you employ a mobile dog wash service or take your dog to a Groomer, ask them to alert you to anything suspicious.
  • Report anything that doesn’t appear normal to your Veterinarian.

Be Sun Smart

Overexposure to the sun is considered to be the main cause of dog skin cancer. Reduce your dog’s exposure by providing her/him with a Dog house or suitable shelter when outside. Remember:

  • Daylight saving time allows more time for you and your pet outdoors, but be aware of maximum UV ray periods.
  • In the Southern hemisphere, especially Australia and New Zealand, UV rays are often more powerful than in the Northern hemisphere.
  • Cloudy days may feel cooler, but UV rays can still reach your dogs skin–and you own. Be sun smart for both of you!

Treatment

Accepting that prevention is the best medicine, if your dog does contract skin cancer, the treatment depends on the type of tumour and it’s location. Surgery is often the first step for malignant melanomas. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery and/or radiation therapy.

There is also a vaccine that causes the dogs’ own immune system to attack tumour cells, which often successfully extends the survival time of dogs with oral melanoma.

It’s your responsibility.

Because some types of dog skin cancer, including dog melanomas and most cell tumours, are fatal if untreated, it is important that you have your Veterinarian check any suspicious growths.

While it is common for dogs to get skin cancer between the ages of six and fourteen, dogs can develop cancer at any time.

As a responsible pet owner, it is important you know how to prevent skin cancer as well as recognise it when it occurs.

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