I have a dream...
By paula27661
@paula27661 (15811)
Australia
November 24, 2010 9:58pm CST
I have not worked outside of the home for nine years since my daughter came along and it has been great because she was a long awaited baby and a wonderful miracle in our lives so it was my choice not to work outside the home so I would not miss a second of her life but now the time has come for me to become the financially independent woman I had been before becoming a mother. Up to now I have been working online and submitting articles to editors in order to make a little extra cash which has helped.
I have a dream these days and that is to start my own business because I would rather stick pins in my eyes than work in an office again for a difficult boss! My dream is to open a boarding cattery where feline loving folks can leave their beloved kitties while they are away. I’ve mentioned this ambition of mine several times here and, as times goes on the need to do this feels more and more urgent.
The problems are two; one being lack of funds and the second is where does one start? I will need to increase my earnings in order to have more cash to meet business loan repayments and I’ve considered selling goods on EBay using a drop shipping system.
Do you dear friends have any advice for me in regards to selling on EBay and/or opening a cattery? I would appreciate any instruction at all.
Oh…Just a reminder…In regards to my desire to make extra money, please, please, please DO NOT post referral links of any kind because as we all should know is not allowed here.
Thanks guys...
7 people like this
17 responses
@Aussies2007 (5336)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
I would have thought that for opening a cattery, you would need some basic veterinian knowledge, in case the cat get sick.
In Australia, the vets have also rules about your cat being vaccined and treated for fleas before being taken into boarding.
Then, you will need to ask the authorisation of your council to open a cattery. This will prevent you getting in trouble with your neighbors.
That's the 3 main things I can think off at this stage.
I would also insist to get paid when they deposit their cat with you. This will prevent people abandonning their cat with you and to never be seen again.
For Ebay, it is easy as long as you sell something people want for the right price. This rule applies universally everytime you want to sell something. But beware not to do it too cheap, because there are costs involve.
Ebay charges you for the listing + a percentage of the sale.
PayPal will charge you if the client pays with a credit card.
And you still have to pay the postage.
So if you sell something for $25, you might finish with $18 after paying your costs. Now if the item did cost you $15... you made $2, and it probably took you an hour of your time to complete the sale. Not worth it.
You need to have a reasonnable profit margin on what you sell in order to make money. Otherwise you will work the whole day, and Ebay will make more from your sales than you do. Ebay does work when you do it right. But it is not worth your while to sell items under $10.
1 person likes this
@Aussies2007 (5336)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
Providing you are courteous with your clients, it is not difficult at all to get off the ground with Ebay.
You might even want to start selling some cheap stuff worth a couple of dollars for each item, not to make a profit, but for establishing your reputation on Ebay.
For instance, you go to Australia post, and have a look what sort of stamps they sell to collectors. Buy popular thematic stamps. Australia's fauna is very popular overseas. They'll buy anything with a koala on it.
Buy a set of stamps for $5 and list it on Ebay for $4 in auction.
Sell 10 or 20 sets, and your reputation is established.
If you have to sell it for $4, you lose a couple of dollars to establish yourself.
But an American might bid $6 for it. You never know.
Another idea instead of the cattery, would be a day care centre.
$35 a day per child. Look after 5 children and you have a decent revenu.
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
You've given me food for thought here...My best friend does day care from her house and has been doing it for years in fact she and I used to live together a few years ago and I used to help her out in her business and that is how I know that I prefer looking after cats than children (LOL)! Thanks so much for the advice I will take it on board as I decide what to do. The cattery is still my ultimate dream and hopefully I'll get there in due course. Thanks!
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
You make good points. I know about the council restrictions because I've enquired. A cattery can only be built in a semi-rural or rural area and it does vary from shire to shire. There is no need for formal qualifications but feline knowledge is a must as is a good relationship with a vet. I am very confident that the cattery idea is a good one for me; I've got someone who runs a very successful one showing me the ropes and I know that although it would be hard work I would love it.
The EBay thing on the other hand I am not so sure about, for me it would be a means to an end but it sounds like it would take too long to get off the ground if it gets off the ground! I will have to ponder on that one...Thanks for your ideas Aussies, most appreciated!
@kalav56 (11464)
• India
25 Nov 10
Hi Paula ! I felt extremely thrilled to read your topic as it were my own independent venture[I am not a pet lover but the thought of a woman doing her own business especially to be at home and be in full charge of her child appeals to me.] Any venture that is based on one's own strengths and aptitude would defnitely succeed and I think in your counry the sort of services you offer would find response. First of all let me wish you all the best!
Secondly, do you have an independent plce of your own?--This is very important because if you are to lease premises then it would be extra overheads and breakeven would take some time and needs a lot of staying power.
Regarding the loan, would your banks not sanction loans to unemployed graduates , ? In our country , I think ,there is this facility.I do not know about yours.
If you have your own place, start it in a small way by circulating word through your friends. Even if it is one cat, it s alright; from there if business picks up you can think of leasing premises depending on the requirement for space.Perhaps , banks may offer you loan.
I do not know if I have said something that would not suit your country norms but my sincere wishes and prayers are with you.All the best!1 person likes this
@kalav56 (11464)
• India
25 Nov 10
That your husband is supportive of he venture is a great thing Paula. It is true thta you have to be careful though because with loans the expenditure of the interest element must be factored in. I would suggest that you make a website inviting potential customers and assess the clientele you may get. Making a website would first of all cost less and if the idea works out, you can write this down as expenditure. The risk element is lower here and you would start with minor expense.Discuss it with your husband .Buying land is a sort of assetisation but the loan must be deeply thought about.Getting assured business would solve the issue.
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
Yes buying an established business would be ideal but although there are quite a few catteries in my state not very many show up on the market. I've researched this and I have learned that people seem to hang on to them for years which I guess is a good sign. Starting from scratch will be hard work but I am not concerned with that. My main worry is lack of funds! I'll put it out to the Universe and keep my eyes and ears open for opportunities and in the meantime I'll keep physically working towards saving money. Wish me luck!
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
Thanks for the good wishes kalav! Unfortunately taking care of other people's cats is not something I could do where I live because the Shire will not allow it although I have two cats of my own! I will need to buy some land somewhere more rural hence the need to earn extra money. My husband is supportive of the idea and is willing to take out the necessary loans but I am treading very carefully. I'm hoping that prayer will guide me in the right direction...
@sacmom (14192)
• United States
3 Mar 11
Hi Paula. Sorry for the late response. I've had a similar dream. The only difference is that it was for cats and dogs. It hasn't come true, of course, but I have worked for one in the past (which is what started the whole dream thing in the first place 
).
I think the only way to really learn about this business is to learn hands on. That way you can get a better idea of what you'd be getting into. If you don't like it, you can always quit before you dedicate yourself to opening such a business. If you do like it, then great! I don't know what you need to get started, but I found this site:
http://smallbusiness.chron.com/starting-dog-kennel-business-4444.html
Even though it's for starting a dog kennel business, it should give you an idea of what you'll need for starting a cattery.
Good luck and happy mylotting!
).
I think the only way to really learn about this business is to learn hands on. That way you can get a better idea of what you'd be getting into. If you don't like it, you can always quit before you dedicate yourself to opening such a business. If you do like it, then great! I don't know what you need to get started, but I found this site:
http://smallbusiness.chron.com/starting-dog-kennel-business-4444.html
Even though it's for starting a dog kennel business, it should give you an idea of what you'll need for starting a cattery.
Good luck and happy mylotting!1 person likes this
@sacmom (14192)
• United States
3 Mar 11
I hope so Paula. And I know what you mean. They aren't easy to come by here either.
You might want to try veterinary hospitals, animal pounds, and boarding kennels (for dogs and cats), not just catteries. Don't limit yourself to cats, just now. That way you will have a better chance at finding a job in this line of work so you can get the experience you need. Not to mention some extra money in your pocket!
Again, good luck! I wish you the best! 
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
3 Mar 11
Thanks for responding sacmon. You offer great advice. I agree that obtaining a job in a cattery would be the best start although they are not easily to come by here at present. I will keep looking though and who knows...My dream may come true one day!
1 person likes this
@Angelgirl16 (2171)
• United States
25 Nov 10
Hi paula,
What a blessing it has been for you to be a stay-at-home mom all these years with your daughter. I don't blame you for not wanting to missing those precious moments that you could never get back.
Now,I know what you mean, not wanting to go back to "the office." The feeling of working for yourself is indescribable. I like your idea about the boarding house for kitties; a unique idea.
If you don't know where to start, you can start by calling an organization called SCORE. They will help you with a business plan and other information that you will need to get this business off the ground.
Good Luck to You
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
I have been very blessed to have been able to stay with my daughter for so long but the time has come for a change and going back to an office is not my first choice that's for sure! I will check out the site you mentioned although I'm in Australia but any advice is good advice I think! Thanks so much for that Angelgirl and thanks for responding!
@Angelgirl16 (2171)
• United States
26 Nov 10
Hi paula,
I didn't that you were so far away. I am not sure if you have the SCORE organization there, but you could goggle it to see. Going back to the office can be a way to get out of the house and get idea about your next move in becoming and independent woman.
1 person likes this
@theDeranged (96)
• Canada
25 Nov 10
Building a successful E-bay store will be a long and hard trek. There are already so many trusted sellers on E-Bay that you, a noob, would have to compete with. Most would rather deal with a trusted seller than someone just starting out.
Perhaps your best bet for starting a cattery would be to start slow? Start by offering cat-sitting options for people? That will also allow you to see what kind of market there is before you invest. I have two cats on top of the three dogs (not literally :p ). And if we were ever to go away somewhere, the dogs would be boarded and the cats left with a full bag of cat food, two clean litter boxes, and a few water buckets. Most cats don't need the same level of care as other animals. I know our cats couldn't care less if we're ever home. As long as they have food, clean water, and clean poop-boxes.
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
I suspect it would not be easy to succeed with an EBay store...I've visited several boarding catteries here in Australia and they are all very busy and doing well which may explain why there are not too many for sale! I have two cats which I place in a boarding cattery every time I go away which has given me the idea of this being something I would enjoy. Starting slow is good advice...Thanks for responding theDeranged, I appreciate it!
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
I thought about cat sitting but I wouldn't do it if it entailed living in the client’s house because I have a family. I would cut back on the writing that's for sure especially when I first start out; I would imagine I will be working my butt off! I still don't know how I'm going to make it happen but I am determined!
@jaguar0194 (76)
• India
6 Dec 10
i have a dream to make myself proud and happy in the sector of job and family matters.to travels around the world.to marry to my dream gal.so my parents also feel round of me.where there m going with my family they know me before m there.
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
7 Dec 10
They sound like great goals to me! Sometimes it is best to dream for the right job, partner etc. than to be specific. I hope that all your dreams will come true; I'm sure that if you live a good life of integrity all your heart desires will eventually come to you at the right time. Thanks for responding jaguar0194!
@gabs8513 (48686)
• United Kingdom
26 Nov 10
Hi Paula
I would like you to get your Dream, as I always wanted to open a Dog Shelter, but well it never happened, A Ex Husband who liked his social Life and that, I never had the chance to save any money and then there was my 2 little ones who always came first no matter what
Then I became sick with my Illness and I am not strong enough to do it any more
I would suggest you start small by taking some in at first and work up from there
The Money you receive put away and then when you think you have enough and doing well with it, then start making your Inquiries at how much it would cost, how much you have got and is it possible to start
I really hope you can make your dream come true
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
27 Nov 10
Hi gabs,I'm sorry you didn't get your dog shelter off the ground...Life happens sometimes and puts a stop to our desires. Unfortunately I'm not allowed to board any cats where I live as the council won't allow it. I am now considering applying for a job at a cattery to make extra cash so that I can save that way...It's a thought...Thanks for responding and the good wishes gabs!
@BarBaraPrz (45511)
• St. Catharines, Ontario
25 Nov 10
I think your first step would be to check the zoning bylaws in your area to see if opening a cattery is even allowed.
Good luck with your dream.
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
Yes, I've done that and discovered that where I live it is not allowed which means having to buy somewhere else close by if we don't want to live on the premises or if the cattery is going to be further away we may need to relocate our home. Either way it would not be a cheap exercise and that is why I need to make some extra money so it looks like I may have to get a job of some kind! Thanks for responding Barbara!
1 person likes this
@ANTIQUELADY (36440)
• United States
25 Nov 10
I don't even own a cat so afraid i can't be of too much help there. I have been in buisness for myself. I know how u are feeling about now. I was extremely tired of working for other people. I don't do too well having a boss, lol. I would suggest u visit other places that do this & kind of get an idea what u need to get started. I had to borrow money when i got my own beauty shop & it's very scary to know if u are going to make it. I don't know if there is a demand for buisnesses like this or not. There are places here that will board ur pet & they are right expensive seems to me but i have never boarded my dog. U will need to stay w/in their price range at first anyways. U can always go up on prices later. I hope u are able to do this. As for ebay i use to sell ntiques on there but haven't in years so don't know much about ebay now. I have heard they have changed the rules, gone up on their prices etc. U can always research it & see what goes on. GOOD LUCK!!!!
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
Starting your own business is always a risk but I have done some research and learnt that there are quite a few catteries and boarding kennels around and the owners seem to hold on to them. I spoke with the owner of the cattery I use and she earns quite a lot; she boards up to 170 cats which is quite big; I plan on starting with only 20 or 30 and seeing how I go. Thanks for the response and the good luck wishes ANTIQUELADY!
@cynthiann (18602)
• Jamaica
25 Nov 10
I wish that I could respond saying that I have the answer to all your problems - but I don't. I am so last century when it comes to things like ebay but then I have never had the opportunity to sit down and learn about it. I only do Mylot and do not even have the time to join facebook besides numerous requests to do so from friends and family. I work for a difficult boss. It is 3:20 pm right now in this country and it is my half day. He has given me so much work to do that I cannot have my half day - and I am doing this whilst I eat lunch. I agree with you - so much better to have your own job. Loved your expressions about preferring to stick pins in your eyes before working for a miserable boss.Best of luck.
Best of luck.1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
I have been so miserable in some jobs in the past and I shudder at the thought of going back there! I've been away from office politics for so long that I could not cope going back there...I need flexibility in my life and being my own boss would work so well but it does come with disadvantages such as needing large amounts of cash to get started. It's been several hours since you posted so I hope you are not still working! Thanks for stopping by cynthiann!
@JenInTN (27514)
• United States
27 Nov 10
I am very excited for you! I think that your start up cost will be very reasonable. I'm sure there is a license you must get and of course insurance to protect yourself. Food and accomodations is about all else I can think of...what do you have in mind for accomodations?
As for Ebay...my best advice is set a reserve on the stuff you sell. That way it doesn't get sold for a penny or someting crazy like that. Try the website ETSY too if you do crafts. I signed up for it but never really followed through. I haven't got to paint in quite some time now. Oh...Ebay..I also would make my payment methods paypal, credit cards, or money orders only. Also stay in close contact with the buyers so you will get goos feedback..ex..thanks for business...your item has been shipped etc. Great luck Paula!
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
27 Nov 10
We would have to build one somewhere and if we couln't find anyone who would live on the premises as a careteker, we would have to sell our house and move which would be a huge hassle so it is a huge project but one tbat I woud love to accompish. Thanks for responding Jen!
@shia88 (4571)
• Malaysia
26 Nov 10
Hi,
It is good to have a dream and as long as you
have strong determination to make your dream comes true, It will
happen ONe Day.
But frankly speaking,not easy to handle own business,but then it
will be a great experiences for you.
I also have a dream to set up an online store,but I have no idea what
items to sell. I saw some of my friends are selling those
children and woman's wears online and their business are pretty good.
I believe need some marketing skills to boost up the business too.
Good luck to you.
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
The cattery idea is one I know I should pursue and unfortunately it will take extra cash that I will need to save. Starting an EBay store may not be the thing for me because it sounds as though their fees are quite expensive but I will look into some more otherwise an offline job may be my only option! Thanks for the response shia88!
@preppydezza (309)
• Philippines
25 Nov 10
hi paula! ;) Try to make a feasibility studies about it. I mean, on what I've read on your comments on other who posted, you have thought about it because of your trips abroad and living your cats to a cattery. I mean, you may not know what things to be done or routines that they usually do on a cattery. Or the equipments they use to make your pets be as comfortable as they can be. And the usual amount they spend on the daily basis. ;)
Actually, that's what I do now, considering I wanted to put up my own business. It would help you on the expenses you'll made and it will also help you to manage things and all. And don't forget, if you start your business, always keep tract on the money you spend and your profit.
I hope that I could help you better with what I said even if its not that informative. ;)
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
26 Nov 10
Thanks for the advice preppydezza. I spent some time at the cattery where I take my cats to and the owner there was kind enough to give me some pointers such as some of the things you listed and with my own experience with cats and what she taught me I have a fair idea of what would need doing every day. The problem I have at the moment is lack of funds and provided I make some extra money I cam get closer to my goal, easier said than done! Thanks for responding!
@cuckoosnest (250)
• Philippines
25 Nov 10
Wow...cattery...first time I've heard of that. Hard to imagine that here, where most cats I see are strays (some pretty fierce ones too). You must be one heck of a cat lover :)
Selling in ebay is hard, especially if you have to start from scratch and build up your reputation on the site. Plus they're getting pretty strict there, heard of a lot of complaints from long-time sellers being blocked access. Can't really think of an alternative...craigslist, perhaps? I'm quite a noob at online selling myself. I hope everything works out for you. Best of luck!
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
Thanks for the good luck wishes! I adore cats and I've had them around me for most of my life. In Australia there are many catteries which seem to be doing really good business because cat lovers like me are happy to know that their felines are well taken care of while they are away. I know I do! I am getting put off the EBay idea from the responses I've had and an ordinary offline job may be on the cards! Thanks for responding cuckoosnest!
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
That's okay Pam...Opening a cattery is not something that a lot of people would dream of doing I guess...Just send me positive energy and you never know...I've got to figure out how to earn more money before committing myself to a loan to start the business...Thanks for responding Pam...
@zandi458 (28102)
• Malaysia
25 Nov 10
Hi Paula, I am happy to read of your intention to be financially independent. We woman do have the capabilities of doing successful businesses if given the opportunities. I think your idea of opening a boarding cattery do get good response especially in your place where many are pet lovers and they need caretakers for their pets when they go for vacations. I've seen dog motels in Bunderberg for dog lovers to send their dogs while they are away. I wish that we have it here as I always find it a problem when I shuttle between my two homes bringing the whole entourage of 4 dogs.
I am sure you can materialize your dream of opening up this business with careful planning. Maybe you can start small first and when you get more established and with encouraging responses then you can eventually think of upgrading to a bigger facility.
All the best to you and hope your dream come true.
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
Thanks zandi! At the moment I have to find a way to earn a little more money so I can manage to repay any business loans I may have while I am waiting for the business to become established hence the EBay idea which I am still not too sure about! I do plan on starting small and expanding as business hopefully grows. Thanks for the response!
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Nov 10
I guess we all have to start with a dream that we can put out there in the Universe and then start the physical work towards making it a reality and that is where it may become difficult at times but I don't intend to give up. Thanks for joining my discussion ebuscat!
