Starting a pet sitting business is a rewarding venture that combines a passion for animals with smart business sense. The pet care industry is a multi-billion dollar market, and there is steady demand for reliable sitters from vacationing families, busy professionals, and owners of pets with special needs.
This guide will take you through the practical steps of validating your business concept, obtaining necessary licenses, securing funding, and acquiring equipment to help you launch a successful pet sitting business in the U.S.
Step 1: Plan your business and validate your idea
Define your local market
First, define your service area. Use Google Maps to draw a realistic 5-10 mile radius. Then, use platforms like Nextdoor or local Facebook pet groups to gauge demand. A simple poll asking about pet care needs can provide quick insights.
Your goal is to find out what services people actually want. Are they looking for overnight stays, daily dog walks, or drop-in visits for cats? Focus on the top two or three requested services to start.
Analyze competitors and estimate costs
Now, look up other pet sitters in your area on Google, Yelp, and apps like Rover. Note their services, prices, and what clients say in reviews. This research helps you find your place in the market.
Many new sitters make the mistake of pricing their services too low. This can attract difficult clients and devalue your work. Instead, aim for a competitive price that reflects your experience and the quality of care you offer.
Speaking of costs, your initial investment is often modest. Business registration may be $50-$150. Pet sitting insurance is a key protection that typically runs $250-$500 annually. Basic supplies like a first-aid kit and extra leashes might add $100-$200.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Survey at least 15 local pet owners to identify their top needs.
- List the services and prices of 3-5 direct competitors in your area.
- Draft a startup budget with estimated costs for insurance and business registration.
Step 2: Set up your legal structure and get licensed
Choose your business structure
You might want to consider forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC). It separates your personal assets from your business debts. This means if something goes wrong, your personal savings and property are protected. An LLC costs about $100-$500 to set up.
Many new sitters start as a sole proprietor because it is simple, but this choice leaves your personal assets exposed. If a pet is injured on your watch, you could be personally liable. The protection an LLC offers is worth the initial paperwork and cost.
Navigate licenses and permits
At the federal level, the USDA Animal Welfare Act license is not typically required for in-home pet sitting. Your focus should be on state and local rules. Visit your state’s Secretary of State website to register your business name and structure, which can take a few weeks.
Next, contact your city or county clerk’s office for a general business license. This permit usually costs between $50 and $150. While you are there, ask if any specific local kennel or pet care permits apply to your planned services.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Decide between forming an LLC or operating as a sole proprietorship.
- Visit your Secretary of State's website to review the LLC formation process.
- Contact your city clerk’s office to inquire about general business license fees.
Step 3: Secure insurance and manage risk
Your next move is to get insured. Pet sitting insurance is not the same as your personal homeowner's policy. You need a specific plan that includes general liability and animal bailee coverage, which protects you if a pet is lost or injured in your care.
Look for policies with at least $1 million in liability coverage. Annual premiums for this type of plan typically range from $300 to $600. This investment protects your business and gives clients peace of mind, a key selling point for your services.
Consider additional coverage
You might also add bonding to your policy. This protects you against accusations of theft and costs about $100-$250 annually. If you plan to hire help down the road, you will also need workers' compensation insurance.
When you shop for quotes, focus on companies that specialize in the pet care industry. Providers like Pet Care Insurance, Business Insurers of the Carolinas, and Pet Sitters Associates understand the unique risks, from a dog bite incident to a lost house key.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Request quotes from at least two specialized pet sitting insurance providers.
- Confirm that any policy you consider includes animal bailee coverage.
- Ask about the cost to add bonding to your liability policy.
Step 4: Prepare your space and buy equipment
Operate from your home
Most pet sitters start with a home-based operation to keep overhead low. You should check your city’s zoning ordinances for “home occupation” rules. Some areas may have limits on the number of client pets allowed at your residence, which is important if you offer boarding.
If you decide to lease a commercial space for services like doggy daycare, review the lease’s “use” clause. Confirm it explicitly permits animal care services before you sign. This avoids future conflicts with a landlord.
Stock up on supplies
Many new sitters overspend on gear at the start. You just need reliable, safe equipment. Focus your budget on items that ensure the well-being of the pets in your care. You can always add more specialized items later as your business grows and you learn what clients need.
Here are some supplies and their average costs:
- Pet first-aid kit: $25-$50
- Extra leashes and collars: $40-$80
- Durable pet carriers (if you transport pets): $30-$70 each
- Professional-grade, pet-safe cleaning supplies: $50-$100
You can find these items at online retailers like Chewy or by building a relationship with a local pet supply store. Buying some items in bulk, like waste bags, can save you money over time.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Review your city’s zoning rules for home-based businesses.
- Create a shopping list with a budget for your initial supplies.
- Price compare a complete pet first-aid kit from two different retailers.
Step 5: Set up payment processing
Establish your payment policies
Most sitters require payment before or at the start of service. This avoids the need to chase money later. For longer bookings, like a week-long vacation, it is standard to ask for a 50% deposit upfront. The balance is then due on the first day of the sit.
A common mistake is having a vague payment policy. Be clear about your terms in your service agreement to prevent awkward conversations and late payments. Decide if you will accept cash, checks, or digital payments.
Choose a payment solution
When you look for a payment solution, focus on low transaction fees and portability. Many providers charge 2.5% to 3.5% plus monthly fees. You want a system that works easily on your phone without extra hardware.
For pet sitters who need to accept payments on-site or on-the-go, JIM offers a streamlined solution. With JIM, you can accept debit, credit and digital wallets directly through your smartphone - just tap and done.
At just 1.99% per transaction with no hidden costs or extra hardware needed, it's particularly useful when you collect payment at a client's home after a meet-and-greet. This rate is often lower than the average commission other payment solution providers offer.
- Get Started: Download JIM app for iOS
- Make a Sale: Type the sales amount, hit sell, and ask your customer to tap their card or device on your phone
- Access Funds: Your money is available right on your JIM card as soon as the sale is done - no waiting for bank transfers
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Draft a clear payment policy that states when payment is due.
- Decide on your deposit amount for vacation bookings.
- Download the JIM app to explore its features for on-the-go payments.
Step 6: Fund your business and manage finances
Most pet sitters start by using personal savings since initial costs are low. If you need a small loan, you might want to look into an SBA Microloan. These loans can go up to $50,000, but the average is closer to $13,000.
Interest rates for these loans usually fall between 8% and 13%. Lenders will want to see a solid business plan and a good credit score, typically above 620, to qualify. Grants are rare for this type of business, but check with your local Small Business Development Center for regional programs.
Calculate your working capital
Next, you need to figure out your working capital for the first six months. A frequent misstep is to forget costs beyond the initial setup. You should account for gas, marketing, and replacing supplies like waste bags and treats.
A good estimate is to add up your monthly costs for insurance, gas, and marketing, then multiply by six. For example, if your monthly expenses are $300, you should have at least $1,800 set aside to operate comfortably.
Manage your money
Once you have funds, open a separate business bank account. This makes tax season much simpler. Also, use software like Wave or QuickBooks Self-Employed to track every dollar that comes in and goes out. This helps you monitor cash flow and profitability.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Calculate your working capital needs for the first six months.
- Research SBA Microloan requirements through a local lender.
- Open a dedicated business checking account.
Step 7: Hire your first team members and set up operations
Find your first pet sitter
When you turn down more than three jobs a week, it is time to hire. Your first team member will likely be a part-time pet sitter. This person handles daily walks and drop-in visits, which frees you to focus on client relations and growth.
Pay for this role typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour. A frequent misstep is to hire friends without a formal process. It is a good idea to run a background check and ask for proof of Pet First Aid & CPR certification for every candidate.
Streamline your daily tasks
As your client list grows, manual schedules become chaotic. You can use dedicated pet sitting software like Time To Pet or Pet Sitter Plus to manage appointments, client information, and invoicing from one place. These platforms often include a client portal for easy communication.
As you scale, a good benchmark to follow is that staff pay should account for 40-50% of your revenue. This helps you price your services profitably and decide when to bring on more help without hurting your cash flow.
Here are 4 immediate steps to take:
- Draft a job description for a part-time pet sitter role.
- Research two background check services for small businesses.
- Explore the features of a pet sitting software like Time To Pet.
- Find a local American Red Cross Pet First Aid certification class.
Step 8: Market your business and get clients
Build your online presence
Start with a free Google Business Profile. This action puts your business on Google Maps and in local search results. Ask your first few clients to leave a review. Businesses with at least five reviews can see a significant lift in visibility.
Many new sitters try to be on every social media platform at once. Instead, focus your energy. Master one channel, like a local pet-focused Facebook group, before you add another. Post helpful content, not just ads for your service.
Form local partnerships
Connect with other pet-related businesses. Veterinarians, groomers, and local pet supply stores are great sources for referrals. Offer them a small finder's fee, like 10% of the first booking, for each new client they send your way.
Your Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) is what you spend to get one new client. If you spend $50 on flyers and get two clients, your CAC is $25. Aim to keep this cost below the profit from a typical booking.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Create and fully complete your Google Business Profile.
- Draft an email to introduce your services to 3 local vets or groomers.
- Join one local pet owner Facebook group and prepare an introductory post.
Step 9: Price your services for profit
Set your rates
Your pricing strategy should reflect the quality of your care. Research 3-5 local competitors on Yelp or Rover. Note their prices for a 30-minute drop-in visit, which often ranges from $25 to $35. Overnight stays typically fall between $75 and $100 per night.
Many new sitters make the mistake of underpricing to attract clients. This can devalue your service. Instead, position your rates in the mid-to-upper range of your market. This attracts clients who prioritize reliability and peace of mind over the lowest cost.
Consider offering service packages. For example, you could offer a 10% discount for clients who book five 30-minute walks per week. This encourages repeat business and provides predictable income. Your goal should be a profit margin of 70-80% after you account for operational costs.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- List the prices of 3-5 local competitors for a 30-minute visit and an overnight stay.
- Create two service packages, such as a weekly walk bundle or a vacation care package.
- Calculate your target price for an overnight stay to achieve a 75% profit margin.
Step 10: Maintain quality and scale your operations
Set your quality standards
As you grow, consistent quality is what keeps clients coming back. You can standardize your service by having all team members complete Pet First Aid & CPR certification. Also, consider professional certification through organizations like Pet Sitters International (PSI) to signal a high level of commitment.
To measure your success, track your client retention rate. A rate of 80% or higher shows you are providing excellent care. You should also ask new clients how they found you. If 20-30% of your business comes from referrals, your reputation is strong.
Know when to grow
When you are booked solid four weeks in advance, it is time to scale. Before you hire, move your operations to a dedicated pet sitting software like Time To Pet. Many owners try to scale with spreadsheets and fail. The software handles scheduling and client data so you can focus on growth.
As you add staff, remember that payroll should not exceed 50% of your revenue. This benchmark helps you maintain profitability. It also tells you when you can afford to expand your services or hire another sitter without putting your business at financial risk.
Here are 3 immediate steps to take:
- Review the certification programs offered by Pet Sitters International (PSI).
- Calculate your client retention rate from the past three months.
- Set a clear benchmark for when you will hire your first team member.
You now have a clear path to launch your pet sitting business. Remember, success in this field is built on trust. Clients give you access to their homes and beloved pets. With a careful plan and a genuine love for animals, you are well-equipped to start your journey.
As you run your new business, simple payment processing will make life easier. JIM turns your phone into a card reader for a flat 1.99% fee, with no extra hardware. This lets you accept payments on the spot. Download JIM to get started.
