Running a pet care business is more than a job, it’s a calling. Whether you’re a dog walker, pet groomer, sitter, or trainer, you’re already providing a valuable service. But what if you could offer even more? Premium add-ons like pet photography, training sessions, or even pet birthday packages can take your business to the next level, both in income and client loyalty.
This guide is made for independent pet professionals, solopreneurs, and small pet business owners who want to earn more without stretching themselves thin. We’ll walk you through the why, what, and how of offering add-ons that make sense for your brand and your schedule.
Table of contents
- Why Offer Premium Add-Ons in Your Pet Business?
- What Kind of Add-Ons Can You Offer?
- How to Choose the Right Add-Ons for Your Business
- How to Price Premium Add-Ons (Without Underselling Yourself)
- Marketing Your Add-Ons Without Feeling Salesy
- Real-Life Example: Anna the Dog Walker Adds Training
- Key Takeaways
Why Offer Premium Add-Ons in Your Pet Business?
Adding premium options helps your business stand out and builds trust. People don’t just want someone to care for their pets, they want someone who understands them. Add-ons show you care about every detail of their experience.
Benefits of Premium Add-Ons:
- More revenue per client without needing more clients
- Stronger client loyalty through personalized services
- A standout brand in a crowded market
- Opportunities to collaborate with local photographers, trainers, or pet bakeries
💡 Real Talk: Add-ons aren’t about upselling just for profit, they’re about adding real value. If it feels gimmicky, rethink it.
What Kind of Add-Ons Can You Offer?
Here’s a breakdown of add-ons that pet business owners like you can offer. Choose one or two to start, focus on quality, not quantity.
🐾 1. Pet Photography Sessions
Who doesn’t want cute, high-quality pics of their furry friend?
Ideas:
- Mini shoots during grooming or walks
- Monthly “Pet of the Month” portraits
- Holiday-themed photo packages
Pro Tip: Partner with a local photographer to offer limited-time shoots and split the earnings.
🎓 2. Basic Training Add-Ons
Even 15 minutes of leash work or sit/stay refreshers can be valuable.
Offer for:
- Puppies needing quick refreshers
- Dogs with leash-pulling habits
- Busy owners who need help reinforcing good behavior
Make it optional, clear, and tailored.
🎉 3. Celebration Packs
Perfect for birthdays, adoptions, or holidays.
What to include:
- Pet-safe cake or treat
- Mini photoshoot with a party hat
- Toy and keepsake bag
This is a hit with dog parents who treat their pets like family (which is most of them).
🛁 4. Spa or Grooming Upgrades
Already offer bathing? Add premium touches.
Extras might include:
- Deep conditioning treatments
- Paw balm or tooth brushing
- Scented spritz and bandanas
Use eco-friendly products and share their benefits.
🧳 5. Travel Prep & Post-Trip Services
Many pet owners worry about travel routines.
Offer services like:
- Packing list consults (yes, seriously!)
- Homecoming bath or brush-outs
- Day-after walks to ease re-adjustment
Bonus: Create a downloadable travel checklist as a lead magnet.
How to Choose the Right Add-Ons for Your Business
Not every add-on works for every business. Choosing the right ones depends on:
| Factor | Questions to Ask |
|---|---|
| Your Skills | What are you naturally good at? What do clients ask you for help with? |
| Your Capacity | Do you have time to add this without burning out? |
| Your Audience | What do your clients value most? Where do they already spend? |
| Local Market | Are other businesses already offering this? Can you offer it differently or better? |
Start small. Try one premium add-on and measure how your clients respond.
How to Price Premium Add-Ons (Without Underselling Yourself)
You deserve to get paid well for your time, creativity, and care. That said, pricing can be tricky.
Smart Pricing Tips:
- Anchor to your main service: Add-ons should feel like an upgrade, not a whole new service.
- Bundle creatively: Offer a base package + add-on combo for a slight discount.
- Be transparent: Show exactly what’s included so clients feel confident.
- Use simple language: “$20 for a 15-minute training refresher” is better than “Behavioral reinforcement add-on.”
⚠️ Avoid underpricing. If it doesn’t cover your time and energy, it’s not worth offering.
Marketing Your Add-Ons Without Feeling Salesy
Don’t worry, you don’t need to become a marketing guru. Let your work speak for itself.
Ways to Spread the Word:
- Before-and-after photos of grooming or training wins
- Client testimonials from happy pet parents
- Social media posts showing behind-the-scenes prep
- A simple flyer handed out after a walk or visit
Also:
- Add a small “Want more?” note in your booking emails
- Mention seasonal add-ons (like holiday portraits) in newsletters
- Use booking forms that include a checkbox for optional add-ons
Real-Life Example: Anna the Dog Walker Adds Training
Anna runs a solo dog-walking business in a mid-sized city. Her clients trust her with everything—from feeding to giving meds. Many of them mentioned leash pulling, so she decided to test a 15-minute training refresher as an add-on for $10.
Result:
- 6 out of her 10 regulars added the service.
- She earned an extra $60/week.
- After a month, she raised the price to $15 and added a short video recap for clients.
🐶 “It didn’t feel like selling—it felt like helping.” — Anna
Key Takeaways
- Start with one or two add-ons that match your skills and your clients’ needs.
- Focus on value—think, “How does this make my client’s life easier or happier?”
- Price honestly and sustainably.
- Share naturally through conversation, social posts, and check-ins.
If you’re still in the planning phase or just starting, don’t worry, you don’t need everything figured out at once. We’ve got you covered.
👉 Read next: How to Make $1,000/Month from Pet Sitting: A Practical Guide for Animal Lovers
This guide will walk you through the essentials of setting up, finding your first clients, and building a service your community can count on.