10 Steps to Becoming a Professional Pet Sitter

TL;DR: To become a professional pet sitter, start by gaining real-world experience, picking your niche (like cat or dog sitting), and creating a profile on a trusted app like Petme. Then set your rates, get insured, and grow your client base through five-star service. Whether you’re in NYC, Chicago, or L.A., pet sitting is a flexible career path that can become a reliable income stream.

Pet sitting in 2025 is no longer a casual weekend gig. It’s a legitimate and growing profession with real earning potential, especially in large U.S. cities where pet ownership is booming. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or transition to full-time freelance work, pet sitting can offer freedom, stability, and purpose.

But jumping in blindly won’t get you far. Like any job, success comes with strategy, consistency, and heart. This guide walks you through every step, without skipping the tough bits, to help you build a sustainable pet care business in today’s market.

Step 1: Decide If Pet Sitting Is the Right Path for You

Before building your pet-sitting empire, make sure it fits your lifestyle and personality. Are you calm under pressure? Do you enjoy being alone with animals for extended periods? Can you commit to working during holidays, evenings, and early mornings?

Pet sitting isn’t just cuddling cats or walking cute dogs. It involves cleaning up accidents, administering meds, handling anxious pets, and dealing with unexpected schedule changes. It’s deeply rewarding, but it also requires patience, responsibility, and communication skills.

If you’re unsure, test the waters with a few low-stakes gigs first. Try helping a friend with their pet while they’re out of town, or volunteer at a shelter. That firsthand experience will give you insight into the daily realities of the job.

Step 2: Choose a Niche and Stick with It

Not all pet sitters are generalists. In fact, the best ones specialize. In cities like New York or Chicago, sitters who offer niche services – like cat-only care or large dog expertise – can charge higher rates and build more loyal client bases.

Cat sitting, for example, often involves shorter visits and less physical strain. Dog sitting might pay more, but comes with longer hours and outdoor responsibilities. Some sitters prefer overnight stays (i.e. boarding or house sitting), while others focus on daytime check-ins or walks.

Choosing a niche doesn’t limit you – it helps you focus your skills, market yourself more clearly, and attract the right clients.

Step 3: Get Experience (Without Needing a Job First)

If you don’t have professional pet sitting experience, don’t worry (here’s how to start). Most clients care more about your trustworthiness, love for animals, and ability to follow instructions than formal training. Still, you’ll need something to show potential clients.

Start by offering free or discounted services to friends, coworkers, or neighbors. Ask for reviews afterward. You could also volunteer at local shelters, rescue groups, or doggy daycares to gain exposure to different breeds and behaviors.

Document your experience – take photos (with permission), write down stories, and note challenges you overcame. These details will strengthen your sitter bio later.

Step 4: Pick a Trusted Platform (Don’t Go It Alone)

Creating your own website sounds appealing, but it’s hard to attract traffic unless you’re investing in ads or SEO. For most new sitters, the smartest move is to join a platform like Petme, which brings pet owners directly to you.

Petme, for instance, supports beginners with a huge community of pet owners, built-in vet coverage, and verified reviews. Plus, your profile is discoverable by thousands of local pet parents searching for help in real time.

Working with a platform also eliminates many headaches: no need to chase payments, worry about legal contracts, or build credibility from scratch.

Step 5: Set Competitive Rates That Reflect Your City and Skills

Pricing can be tricky. Charge too little, and clients may question your quality. Charge too much, and you risk being passed over, especially when you’re new.

Start by researching local competitors in your area. In places like L.A. or New York, you might find:

• Drop-in Visits: $18-$25 per 30 minutes

• Dog Walking: $20-$35 per walk

• Overnight Stays: $80-$120 per night

If you’re just starting out, aim for the lower-middle of that range. As you build reviews, you can confidently raise your rates. Offering packages (like 3 walks/week at a discount) can also attract repeat clients.

Transparency is key. Always be clear about what’s included: walks, feeding, medication, playtime, cleaning, and any extras.

Step 6: Build an Authentic and Standout Profile

Your sitter profile is your storefront. Make it feel personal, polished, and professional. Begin with a short intro that captures why you do this – not just what you offer.

A good example: “Hi, I’m Sarah! I’ve cared for pets since I was 10 and now specialize in shy cats and senior pups. My own rescue dog inspired me to help pet parents feel confident when they travel.”

Follow with a summary of your experience, strengths, and any special skills (like administering insulin or leash training). Include high-quality, friendly photos of yourself with animals – not just selfies.

End your profile with a note about availability or preferred service areas. Keep it warm and human.

Step 7: Understand Legal Basics and Insurance

If you’re using a platform like Petme, you may already be partially covered (up to $20,000 in vet expenses) under their protection plan. But if you operate independently, you’ll need to handle your own legal setup.

In the U.S., that might mean registering a sole proprietorship, getting a business license (especially in cities like Chicago or NYC), and securing liability insurance. Expect to pay around $30-$45/month for basic coverage.

You should also use client agreements – outlining cancellation policies, emergency procedures, and responsibilities – to avoid disputes later. Templates are available online, or you can customize them based on the services you offer.

Taking these steps seriously shows clients you’re a pro, not just a hobbyist.

Step 8: Make Every Meet & Greet Count

Think of the meet & greet as your interview. It’s where trust is built – or lost. Prepare in advance by asking questions about the pet’s routine, health history, anxieties, and quirks. Take notes and confirm everything in writing afterward.

Don’t be afraid to say no if something doesn’t feel right – like a dog that’s overly aggressive or a pet parent who seems disorganized or disrespectful. You’re allowed to vet your clients, too.

During the visit, stay calm, be kind to the animal, and walk through the home to learn where supplies are kept. Confirm key access, alarm codes, and feeding instructions before you leave.

Step 9: Deliver a 5-Star Experience (and Then Some)

This is where many sitters fall short. It’s not enough to show up – you have to communicate, anticipate, and impress.

Send at least one daily update with a clear photo and a short message. Let clients know how their pet is doing emotionally and physically. Did Fluffy eat? Did Max seem anxious during the storm? These details offer reassurance and build long-term loyalty.

Stick to the instructions meticulously, and don’t cut corners – arrive on time, clean up after the pet, and water plants or bring in mail if it’s part of the job.

When clients return, they should feel like their pet was cared for better than they expected. That’s what turns one-time gigs into repeat bookings.

Step 10: Grow Through Reviews, Referrals, and Better Clients

Happy clients are your best marketing tool. After each successful job, politely ask for a review. On platforms like Petme, recent reviews help you rank higher in search results and get more visibility.

To build momentum, consider offering small referral bonuses or discounts on second bookings. You can also create a simple business card or digital flyer to share in local pet stores, cafes, or community groups.

But don’t just grow for the sake of it. Focus on attracting clients who value you, respect your time, and trust your expertise. As you gain experience, you’ll have more freedom to say no to low-paying jobs or last-minute chaos.

Invest in yourself, too: take a pet CPR course, attend local events, and keep learning about animal behavior. The more you know, the more confidence—and bookings – you’ll earn.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a professional pet sitter isn’t just about loving animals. It’s about responsibility, preparation, and delivering peace of mind to pet owners who are trusting you with their furry family members.

Whether you’re building this as a side hustle or dreaming of a full-time business, follow these steps consistently and honestly. The rewards are real – financially, emotionally, and professionally.

Platforms like Petme make it easier to get started, but the quality of your work is what keeps clients coming back. 🐾

FAQs

1. How much money can you realistically make as a pet sitter?
In major U.S. cities, part-time sitters can earn between $1,000-$2,500/month. Full-time pros, especially those offering overnight stays or handling multiple pets, can earn $4,000-$6,000+ monthly.

2. Is it worth getting certified?
Not required, but certifications in pet CPR or dog behavior can boost your profile and client confidence.

3. What kind of pets can you sit for?
Dogs and cats are the most common, but many sitters also care for rabbits, birds, reptiles, or even fish. Make sure you’re comfortable and prepared for the species you accept.

4. Is pet sitting safe?
Yes, especially when you vet your clients, ask the right questions, and work through a trusted platform. Having emergency plans in place also adds an extra layer of safety.

5. Can you do this without any prior experience?
Absolutely. Everyone starts somewhere. Build experience gradually, document your growth, and focus on delivering care that pet owners remember.