Pet business ideas you can run out and about in Canada
14 ideas
If you would rather spend your day on the move than behind a desk, these 14 pet business ideas are worth a look. They suit animal lovers who are comfortable driving, walking or travelling to clients, from a neighbourhood dog walker or mobile pet groomer to a local pet taxi and vet runs service.
Pond fish supply to landscapers and garden shops
Deliver healthy pond fish in aerated tanks to landscapers, garden centres and aquatic shops on a regular seasonal route.
- C$20k-70k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Local pet taxi and vet runs
Drive pets to vets, groomers, kennels and new homes within your region using your own vehicle.
- C$500-2.5k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Long-distance pet moving by road
Drive pets between cities and provinces, or across the US border, for owners who are relocating.
- C$35k-95k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Neighbourhood dog walker
Walk dogs one-on-one or in pairs for local owners who are at work during the day.
- C$200-1k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Small-group dog adventure walks
Pick up a few well-matched dogs and take them on longer trail or park walks.
- C$8k-30k
- Part-time
- Out and about
In-home dog training
Coach dog owners one-to-one in their own home and neighbourhood on obedience and everyday manners.
- C$500-3k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
In-home dog trainer
Visit owners at home to teach puppies and adult dogs obedience and good manners.
- C$500-3k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Mobile pet groomer
Groom dogs and cats at owners' doors from a van or trailer fitted with a bath and table.
- C$15k-70k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Pet aftercare and collection service
Collect pets who have died from homes and vet clinics, and arrange cremation or burial with care.
- C$2k-10k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Drop-in pet sitter
Visit pets in their own homes to feed, walk and play while owners are at work or away.
- C$200-1.2k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Overnight pet and house sitter
Stay in clients' homes while they travel, caring for their pets and keeping the house lived in.
- C$150-1k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
In-home cat behaviour trainer
Visit cat owners at home to tackle scratching, litter issues and stress, or to teach tricks and carrier comfort.
- C$500-2.5k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Mobile pony rides for parties and fairs
Bring calm, well-trained ponies to birthday parties, fall fairs and community events.
- C$8k-40k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Pop-up dog café at markets and events
Test the dog café idea with a weekend pop-up of coffee, snacks and dog treats at markets, breweries and dog events.
- C$3k-15k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
About these ideas
Start by thinking about your area: how spread out are pet owners, and what will travel cost you in fuel and time? Canadian weather matters too, so consider how a cold winter or a hot summer would affect your working days. Check whether your city or municipality requires any licences or permits, and look into insurance that covers animals in your care and your vehicle if you use one. Begin with the idea that fits your experience and your budget.
Questions
Do I need insurance to start a mobile pet business in Canada?
It is worth checking. Many people in pet care look at liability cover for animals in their care, plus business use cover for any vehicle. Ask a broker what suits your idea, and confirm whether clients or venues expect proof of cover.
Do I need a licence or permit to work with pets in public spaces?
Rules vary by province and municipality. Check local bylaws on dog walking group sizes, park use, business licences and animal transport. Your city website or licensing office is a good first stop before you take on paying clients.
How do I choose between the different out-and-about pet ideas?
Compare start-up costs, the skills you already have and how much driving each idea involves. Think about local demand, seasonal weather, and whether you prefer regular daily clients or occasional higher-priced jobs. Talking to a few local pet owners can help.