Have Your Own Business As Pet Sitters
Pet sitting can be a rewarding job but can also be tiring. If
you are interested in making your own business as a pet sitter,
here are answers to most frequently Asked Questions about this
career.
1. What does a pet sitter do? What he/she is responsible for?
Pet sitters care for your pet just as a baby sitter cares for
your children. While most pets do not demand the same amount of
supervision and care that a child does every pet has a certain
amount of physical requirements as well as social needs. What is
necessary for your pet will depend on the personality as well as
species you are looking to have cared for.
In addition, pet sitters perform a variety of tasks. They may
simply check the food and water supply of your animal. Dogs may
require a walk while cats and caged animals may need their
litter boxes cleaned or the papers changed. If you have an
exotic animal or bird you should look for specialized services
that can adequately meet the needs of your pet.
With pet sitters, your pet will be allowed to stay in its own
environment without the stress of travel or new accommodations.
Pet sitters will follow the schedule your animal is use to and
the diet it is accustomed to. Pet sitters also provide the
one-on-one attention your pet will be missing when you're away.
2. What does a pet sitter cost? You can expect to pay at least
$15-25 for a daily visit of 30 minutes - possibly more if you
require the sitter to walk your dog. Usually the cost for
multiple animals is only a few dollars more per animal. If you
need the sitter to stay overnight you will probably pay $50 or
more. Holiday visits (during the day or overnight) will have an
increased rate.
Please note that rates will vary according to region and
specialty. Some pet sitters will visit twice a day or include
other tasks, such as collecting the mail, with their pet sitting
services.
3. How do I find a pet sitter? You may find a pet sitter listing
in your phone book or online. You can also ask friends, groomers
and veterinarians for referrals.
It is wise to only hire pet sitters who are bonded and insured
since they will not only be responsible for caring for your pet
but must be trusted in your home and with your belongings. Even
when trust is not an issue the sitter will be responsible for
being respectful of your home and properly securing your home
when leaving.
4. What do I have to do to become a pet sitter? It depends on
where you live you may have to have a business license to
operate a pet sitting business. It is also important to acquire
bonding and insurance, not only for the possibility of
negligence but to assure customers of your professionalism.
While you do not need experience to start your own business you
will need to research businesses in the area and talk to
groomers, vets and others about the market. It is important to
be organized and take your business seriously - others are
depending on you. Use contracts to establish the tasks and costs
agreed to and keep paperwork and schedules organized.