Promotion of my small business (Dog walking service)?

I've recently started a dog walking service business. I have bought a domain name and set up a reasonable website (www.wiganwalkies.co.uk for the curious ones), listed the site on all available free search engines and business directories, posted ads in local papers, posted flyers in shop windows, post offices, on tables of doctors and dentists and posted flyers to pretty much every house in my area but I don't seem to be getting anywhere. I also thought about getting a tshirt made with my logo and web address to wear when I walk my own dog so that should happen in a week or so.

I appreciate that with the current good weather, it may not be the best time to start such a business, but was wondering if there's anything else I can do that I haven't covered.

I don't want to spend any significant money at this stage, as I'm not exactly loaded, and would rather wait till I have a few clients and then use any early revenue for further business promotion.

Advice please.

I think you have covered quite a lot already but after getting a few clients word of mouth will help. You could also try asking your local hospital if you could put a flyer up on the notice board that is usually in the corridor at the entrance to the wards, especially 'ortho and surgical wards where people after being discharged often are unable to walk very far. Do you have a free local paper in your area? Where I am we often get flyers for local businesses inside this when delivered. Sometimes people just toss aside leaflets through their door but if relaxing when reading the paper could be more likely to take notice. Also have you thought about flyers in local Travel Agents? Often neighbours don't mind feeding an animal but perhaps if elderly are too keen to walk the dog.
Only thing I think a pity is that you are unable to house a pet or two as in all honesty I think you would get more business doing that. I know this is what I would want for my dog, the personal touch rather than he was put in kennels. Best of luck.

Print up T-shirt to wear in public and business cards. Talk to all local pet stores, vets, groomers. Ask about placing your flyer's and cards there. Explain service......Also, place ad and flyer's at local markets (with permission) , some churches have bulletin boards to place ad, other retailers.......Sounds like you have been thorough. It just takes some time, also check with apartment complexes if they have bulletin boards you can post card or flyer on.......

Try showing the people you are a responsible dog sitter. Askyour neighbours to sit their dog free and if they want to come back they can, they'll have to pay though. Offer other services like keeping the dog for a day hourly charges or washing the dog etc. A lot of dog owners don't have much time for this and you charge extra which means more money! everybody wins!

I had an operation a couple of years ago and couldn't walk for 3 months, I could have done with a dog walker then, or even a foster home for my wee dog.
I wish you lots of luck in your new venture, I'm sure you will do well.