Enjoy a rewarding career as a pet sitter.
Many animal lovers find that starting a pet-sitting business can be a rewarding and profitable career choice or just an enjoyable way to earn supplemental income spending time with animals. Nowadays, many pet owners are in need of trustworthy individuals to care for their pets while they are working, vacationing or attending business trips, and pet-sitting services are in popular demand. By following a few simple steps to start a pet-sitting service, animal lovers can begin a lucrative career.
Administrative Setup
Keep an administrative office away from pet areas.
Though the main responsibilities of a pet-sitting business are performed out-of-office in kennels or the homes of your clients, you will still need a designated area to conduct clerical duties. It's a good idea to start by setting up an office space where you can compose documents and invoices, keep an organized filing system, make and receive phone calls and all other administrative tasks. A small area capable of accommodating a desk, computer, phone and filing cabinets should suffice.
Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan is your pet-sitting company's blueprint for success.
Your business plan should clearly outline your goals and profit projections as well as detail all procedures, pricing and company policies. In addition to the four main components -- business description, financial, management and marketing plans -- it also should include company policies with detailed information regarding what pets you choose to care for and any relevant exceptions. For instance, if you choose to restrict your dog walking services to dogs under 120 pounds or charge an increased rate for larger dogs, make that an inclusion.
Licensing and Registration
Verify local zoning regulations.
As of 2010, no specific "pet-sitting license" exists in the United States, and there is no formal training required to perform such services. However, you will be required in most states to obtain a business license to legally operate a pet-sitting business. Depending on your location, you might run into zoning issues that prohibit you from working in designated areas. Contact your city or state government department to find out what the pet-sitting documentation requirements are in your area.
Insurance and Bonding
Use commercial auto insurance for animal transport.
Having the proper insurance is extremely important to pet sitters. Adequate coverage can protect you and your clients from work-related mishaps on the job. Personal auto insurance does not cover accidents on the job. You will need commercial auto insurance for the time that you are traveling to client homes and in case a pet is injured during transport while in your care. Liability insurance is essential in the event that a pet is hurt, suffers a fatality or bites someone while in your care. You also should become bonded to protect youself from being liable for any theft or damages to client homes and ensure clients that they will not be held liable should their pet harm you.
Materials Needed
Keep a stock of various pet supplies and treats.
Whether you are caring for pets in their own homes or are taking pets into a kennel atmosphere, you're going to need a number of pet supplies to function efficiently. Keep an adequate supply of pet-care items on hand such as leashes, collars, food and water dishes, brooms, mops, paper towels, cleaning supplies, edible pet treats, toys, pet beds, carrying cages, kitty litter and cat boxes.
Marketing
Marketing is one of the most essential steps in any business, including pet sitting. The key to establishing a favorable client base is targeting a specific audience: pet owners. Market your pet-sitting business locally to increase your time efficiency. Ask local veterinarians for referrals and to keep your brochures and flyers at their reception desks. Do the same at local pet stores, groomers, park districts and anywhere that pet owners frequent. Create a website with a name relevant to pet sitting and create social networking profiles where you can search for pet-owning groups and individuals who might need your services.
Special Considerations
Stand out from competitors and add quality and credibility to your pet sitting business. The United States Humane Society recommends maintaining an association with an emergency veterinary clinic in case of pet emergencies, and the American Red Cross provides Pet CPR Certification classes nationwide. Being certified in pet CPR not only prepares you for an emergency, but also can be a positive effect in earning client trust. Becoming a member of professional pet associations such as The International Association of Canine Professionals or Pet Sitters International can be advantageous in networking opportunities and increase your credibility, as well.
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