photo credit: Lee Nachtigal

With tough economic times, more and more people are searching for ways to make extra money without any money upfront, if you love pets then pet sitting is an option you might want to consider. We live in a highly mobile society and whether for business or pleasure, people on the average travel a fair amount. It is often difficult to take your pets with you especially if you are flying or taking a cruise, so this leaves the pet owner with the difficult task of what to do with their beloved dog, cat, or bird. Kennels can be very expensive and often can be quite traumatic for the pet; they can even make them sick.

That is where pet sitting comes in, as a pet sitter you will either come to your client’s home, or you will bring their pet to your home depending on your client’s preference. You will feed, water, exercise and love their pet while they are gone. You may also need to provide grooming, and if the pet is ill, or elderly you might be asked to give them medications as well.

To start this business all you will need is time and a lot of love, your clients will supply the rest. As time goes on pet sitters normally will get bonded, so that owners feel comfortable allowing them access to their homes. You might also consider obtaining certifications in pet sitting and animal first aid.

You will want to print up some paper work on your computer for your new business, a contract, a pet information sheet, and a daily log. The pet information sheet will list all the dogs’ vital information including age, any medical conditions, allergies, and most importantly the name and phone number of their vet. A daily log will be for you to fill out while the pet owner is away, this will allow them to see what time you have spent with their pet, and what you did with them while the owner was away.

Once you have all your preparations in place, then it is time to advertise your pet business, start with flyers and business cards as these can be designed on your computer and printed out for no extra money, provided you have the paper and ink. Once you have completed a few jobs consider taking out an ad in your local newspaper.

Pet sitting services are very popular these days and depending on what is available in your area, you may find that soon you are booked up solid for months, and need to hire more people. Suddenly the business you started without money is bringing in more money than you could possibly have imagined.

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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.

About The Author
Susan Wong maintains many interesting contractor websites, including http://www.roofingcontractorsecrets.info , and http://www.eczemasolutions.info. Please visit her websites and read more useful articles.