A pet sitting job offers a flexible way to earn money for those who love pets and are looking for a part-time or temporary gig. Aside from the pay, this type of job also gives animal lovers the opportunity to spend time with a variety of animals and build skills that they can use for their own pets.
Most pet sitters provide regular services that include walking, feeding and playing with a client’s pet(s) while the owner is away. Occasionally, they may bathe the pet or clean its cage. In addition to these tasks, some pet sitters offer additional services such as house sitting or short-term boarding.
The salary for pet sitters depends on the location and size of their client base. The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not break down salaries specifically for pet sitters, but it notes that the average salary is $15 per hour. Pet sitters who specialize in boarding or grooming are typically paid more than those who only provide daily walks or playtime.
There are a number of online platforms that connect pet owners with people who are willing to take care of their pets for a fee. Some of these sites have specific requirements and guidelines that must be met before a person can begin work, such as verification by the company. For example, Holidog requires all applicants to be screened and approved by a quality team before they can be hired. It also provides a guarantee to cover vet bills in the event of an emergency.
Other online platforms, such as Rover, have similar requirements. These sites allow people to create profiles and connect with pet owners who are looking for someone to watch their pets while they’re gone. Many pet owners are willing to pay more for a sitter who has a great reputation and a lot of experience.
Pet sitters must be responsible for notifying pet owners of any illnesses or injuries that the animal suffers during their stay. They are also responsible for taking the animal to a vet, if necessary. Depending on the situation, pet sitters should also be prepared to clean up after a pet and keep a detailed log of all activities that took place.
While working as a pet sitter can be fun and rewarding, it’s not for everyone. For those who are not good communicators, have no patience for messy or unpleasant tasks, or don’t like to interact with a variety of different pets, this job is probably not the best fit. It’s important to research all potential jobs to avoid any surprises down the line. Lastly, be aware that this type of work often involves being in people’s homes and can involve driving to visit pets or to transport them to veterinary and grooming appointments. For this reason, a valid driver’s license is usually required. Lastly, it’s important to make sure that you have adequate liability insurance in case something goes wrong during your shift.