We were lucky to catch up with Austin Tuck recently and have shared our conversation below.
Austin, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear from you about what you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry and why it matters.
One crucial aspect often overlooked is the ethical responsibility inherent in the pet care industry. Corporations and big business have no place in pet care. Far too often are these businesses blinded by the allure of money, overshadowing the welfare of the animals under their care.
At Tuckered Out Dog Walking, we hold a steadfast belief in prioritizing the well-being of the animals, and the people who take care of them, above all else. This commitment is deeply ingrained in every aspect of our operations. We invest significantly in ongoing training for our staff, ensuring they possess the skills and knowledge necessary to provide top-tier care with a profound understanding of first aid, CPR, body language, and positive reinforcement handling methods. Our dedication to ethical practices extends beyond the daily grind. We’re proud to champion philanthropic efforts through our Sponsored Hike program, where we provide walks to at-risk dogs in animal shelters. It’s a meaningful way for us to give back to the community and support the well-being of animals in need.
Unlike Corporate America, the pet care industry should value and thrive on collaboration rather than cutthroat competition. Not every single dog in Richmond is the right fit for our program at Tuckered Out Dog Walking, and that is okay! It is our responsibility to work together to ensure that all animals receive the specialized care and attention that fits their needs. This collaborative spirit informs our decision-making processes, even if it means turning down lucrative business opportunities in favor of upholding our standard of ethics.
In essence, while profitability is undeniably important, it should never come at the expense of animal welfare. By prioritizing ethics, embracing philanthropy, and fostering a collaborative spirit within the industry, we can collectively elevate the standard of care for all animals, ensuring they lead happy, healthy lives.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
About Me
My name is Austin, founder of Tuckered Out Dog Walking and lifetime animal lover! I grew up in a zoo of a household and started caring for dogs, cats, horses, birds, rodents, fish, and other exotic pets from a very early age. I have been offering private dog walking services since 2013 and was able to fulfill my lifelong dream of working with animals full-time when I officially opened our company in October 2021! In addition to running this business full-time, I also volunteer at the SPCA, attend annual pet industry conferences, and actively work to expand my knowledge through continuing education efforts and maintaining regular connections with other pet business owners.
Our Mission
Tuckered Out Dog Walking began with a simple dream from someone who just wanted to make a difference for pets and their parents in our amazing Richmond community. As our business has grown, many things have evolved, but some things have remained constant. Our core values are still centered around who we are and who we hope to help.
We’re a group of pet enthusiasts, wholeheartedly committed to giving pet parents the support they need in their daily doggie needs. Whether it’s daily exercise, a midday potty break, or introducing your furry friend to new places and experiences, we are honored to help.
We understand how hard it is to leave your pets alone. Join us in our mission to provide exceptional care, where the safety and happiness of your pets are always our top priority. As your partners in pet care, we promise:
Your pets will be loved
Your pets will be safe
We will be gentle
You will be respected
Our Philosophy & Handling Methods
Here at Tuckered Out, we are completely committed to a Fear Free approach and provide frequent continuing education training opportunities to our staff. We believe that force-free, positive reinforcement is the only way to produce long-lasting results and instill confidence in your dogs. We understand that each dog is motivated differently, and cater our approach according to what works best for them! Please bear in mind that our walkers are not certified trainers, but we can work alongside you and your trainer to reinforce a consistent routine that helps build your dogs’ skills and confidence, and gives you peace of mind. You know the old saying, “a tired dog is a good dog?” It’s true! Whether your dog is just starting out or has been with you for years, we will ensure that they are happy, fulfilled, and well-exercised before leaving your home, taking a little bit of the stress out of your busy schedule.
At Tuckered Out, we prioritize the safety and happiness of all pets in our care through our commitment to a Fear Free approach. We believe in fostering trust, love, and respect through every interaction. With a deep commitment to creating a stress-free environment, we employ gentle handling techniques that eliminate anxiety and promote comfort. Our highly trained team ensures the well-being of your pets, undergoing extensive education in pet behavior and body language, force-free handling methods, first aid, and emergency protocols. Beyond meeting physical needs, we focus on enhancing your pet’s mental and emotional well-being through interactive play, personalized attention, and stimulating routines.
Our Team
Exceptional pet care begins with an exceptional team.
Here at Tuckered Out Dog Walking, we believe that a fulfilling career in pet care should be within reach for the right people. We carefully select, train, and support each of our team members so they can concentrate on delivering top-notch care.
We invest in the development and experience of our team to ensure they are adept at handling dogs of all kinds. Continuous education is a priority, with our team members regularly participating in programs that enhance their pet care skills. We are committed to retaining the finest handlers in the industry and providing a work environment that fosters their ongoing commitment. We support our team, so their focus never wavers from your pet while they are on the job.
At Tuckered Out Dog Walking, our commitment to your furry family members goes beyond just the daily walk. We’re all about staying ahead of the pack when it comes to pet care. Continuing education is one of our highest priorities. We’ve made it our mission to constantly learn and grow in the field of pet care. From attending worldwide industry conferences, to completing the Fear Free certification and regularly networking with fellow pet professionals, We’re always seeking new insights and best practices to ensure your pets receive the top-notch care they deserve. Rest assured, when you choose Tuckered Out Dog Walking, you’re not just getting a walk around the block—you’re getting a team that’s dedicated to evolving, improving, and delivering the very best for your furry companions. I can’t wait to work with you and your pets!
Experienced Staff: We only hire folks who have professional experience in the pet care industry, and they each undergo an extensive training curriculum to make sure they fully grasp the Tuckered Out standard.
Continuing Education: Regularly scheduled continuing education, including Pet First Aid and CPR, ensures that each member of our team is equipped to do their job well.
Fair Compensation: We recognize the importance of fair compensation and pay our team a living wage, because employees whose financial needs are met do better work.
W-2 Employees: Many other pet care businesses hire 1099 Independent Contractors. Tuckered Out hires W-2 Employees.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Building a solid reputation within our market has been an incredibly rewarding journey, one that I attribute largely to the power of networking, both within our local community and the wider industry.
From the outset, I recognized the importance of establishing strong connections with fellow pet care professionals, local businesses, and pet guardian alike. By actively engaging in networking events, attending industry conferences, and participating in community outreach initiatives, I’ve been able to forge meaningful relationships that have been instrumental in shaping Tuckered Out Dog Walking’s reputation.
Within our local community, networking has been invaluable in fostering trust and credibility. By actively participating in neighborhood events, partnering with local businesses, and engaging with pet guardian through social media and community forums, we’ve been able to establish ourselves as a trusted and reliable resource for pet care needs.
But networking isn’t just about building relationships within our immediate vicinity—it’s also about tapping into the collective knowledge and expertise of the broader pet care industry. By connecting with fellow professionals, attending workshops and seminars, and staying active in industry associations, I’ve been able to stay abreast of the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in pet care.
Ultimately, it’s these connections and collaborations that have helped us build a reputation for excellence within our market. Whether it’s through word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients, recommendations from fellow pet care professionals, or positive reviews on online platforms, networking has been the cornerstone of our success.
Moving forward, I remain committed to nurturing these relationships and continuing to be an active participant in our local community and the broader pet care industry. Because when we work together, we not only strengthen our own businesses but also elevate the standard of care for all pets in our community.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support and camaraderie of our fellow pet care professionals and the local community, and I look forward to continuing to build upon our reputation as a trusted and respected leader in the industry.
My interview with Doug Keeling, a leading industry icon, answers this question best! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7DN4yVyGu8
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Reflecting on my journey starting Tuckered Out Dog Walking, one of the most significant lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the idea that the free market operates in a perfect vacuum, where competition is the sole driving force behind consumer behavior.
With a degree in Economics, my studies were deeply rooted in understanding market dynamics and how individuals make choices in response to competition. While this education was undoubtedly valuable, it also presented a formidable obstacle when it came to launching my own pet care business.
Initially, I approached the idea of starting Tuckered Out with the mindset that success would hinge solely on offering superior services and outperforming competitors in a cutthroat market. However, what I soon came to realize was that our world isn’t governed by the neat, predictable principles outlined in economic textbooks.
In the pet care industry, and indeed in many service-based businesses, there are countless external factors at play—sociological, emotional, and even cultural influences—that significantly impact how people choose which company to entrust with the care of their beloved pets. And let’s not forget the ethical implications of working with living beings.
This realization was a turning point for me. It forced me to unlearn the narrow framework of competition and instead embrace a more nuanced understanding of consumer behavior—one that acknowledges the multifaceted nature of decision-making and the importance of building trust, fostering relationships, and understanding the unique needs and preferences of each client.
While my economics background provided a solid foundation, it was ultimately the recognition of these broader sociological aspects that allowed me to overcome the initial obstacles and build a successful business. Today, Tuckered Out Dog Walking thrives not just because we offer exceptional services, but because we understand the intricacies of human-animal relationships and strive to provide a personalized, compassionate approach to pet care.
In hindsight, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the growth that came from challenging my preconceived notions. It’s a reminder that true success often lies not in adhering to rigid theoretical frameworks, but in embracing the complexity and richness of the human experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tuckeredoutrva.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tuckeredoutrva/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tuckeredoutRVA
- Other: Google Reviews: https://g.page/r/CXs9pdtqwcHSEAI/review
Image Credits
N/A, all taken by us