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How to start a pet sitting business: 9 steps to your first booking

Updated 2026-05-01 ✓ Reviewed for accuracy FounderIgnite Editorial

Pet sitting is one of the fastest businesses to launch with the least startup capital. Demand is consistent, clients are loyal, and the path from first client to a full schedule can happen in weeks. Here are the 9 steps to get started.

Step 1: Register your business (takes 1 day)

Form an LLC (protects personal assets, looks professional) and get a business license from your city. An LLC costs $50–$200 depending on state and takes a few days online.

Step 2: Get insured before your first client

Two coverages you need:

Thimble
A-rated GL, BOP, professional liability, and equipment coverage. Bind online in minutes — download your COI the same day.
Get pet sitter insurance → →

Step 3: List on Rover and Care.com immediately

These platforms drive clients to you before you have any marketing presence. Fill your profile completely — photo, bio, experience, services, rates. Respond to every inquiry within the hour. Your first reviews here are gold.

Step 4: Tell everyone you know

Text every pet owner in your contact list. Post on Nextdoor and Facebook. Your personal network generates 50–70% of early pet sitting clients. Don't skip this step trying to build an Instagram presence first.

Step 5: Set up a Google Business Profile

Free. Takes 10 minutes. Shows up in "pet sitter near me" searches. Add your services, rates, and ask every client for a Google review. After 15+ reviews, you'll get consistent inbound calls without any ad spend.

Step 6: Post on Instagram (but don't obsess over it early)

Share photos of pets you're caring for (with owner permission). Before/after walks, happy pets at rest, funny pet moments — all perform well. Build this consistently over months, not weeks. It's a long game.

Step 7: Move clients off apps as fast as possible

Rover takes 20%. Wag takes 40%. After 3–5 visits, mention that you take direct bookings at a slight discount. Set up your own booking through Time To Pet or Jobber. Moving one client per month to direct saves $200–$400/month by year two.

Step 8: Build referral relationships with veterinary offices

Vets get asked for pet sitter recommendations every week. Introduce yourself, leave professional business cards, and follow up quarterly. One vet relationship can generate 5–15 new clients per year for free.

Step 9: Rebook every client before you leave

Ask at pickup: "Want to get your next trip on the calendar? I'm booking [month] now." A client who locks in their next booking is 3x less likely to try a different sitter. Recurring clients are the foundation of a full schedule.

9 things to put in your pet sitting contract

  1. Emergency veterinary authorization and who pays if you can't reach the owner
  2. Medication administration policy and fees
  3. Cancellation and refund policy
  4. Your liability limits for pet health issues that develop during care
  5. What happens if a pet escapes or is injured
  6. Whether other pets will be present (for in-home boarding)
  7. Key handling and home access procedures
  8. Preferred veterinarian contact information
  9. Social media photo permission

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to start a pet sitting business?
Almost nothing — $200–$800 total. Business registration ($50–$200), insurance ($300–$600/year), a scheduling app subscription ($20–$40/month), and basic marketing (free or low-cost). Pet sitting is one of the lowest-barrier businesses you can start.
Do pet sitters need a license?
Most states don't have a pet sitter license, but you need a business license from your city or county. Some states regulate pet sitting facilities (if pets stay at your home). The Pet Sitters International (PSI) and National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) certifications aren't required but build client trust.
How do pet sitters find clients?
Rover and Wag are the fastest starting points — list immediately. Beyond that: personal network, local Facebook groups and Nextdoor, vet office referrals (leave cards), Google Business Profile, and Instagram showing happy pets in your care. Your first 10 clients almost always come from people who already know you or were referred by someone who does.
How much should I charge for pet sitting?
In-home pet sitting (you stay at client's home): $60–$100/night. Drop-in visits (30 min check-in): $20–$35. Overnight boarding (pet stays at your home): $40–$75/night. Rates vary significantly by market — research local rates on Rover before setting yours.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or insurance advice. Coverage availability and pricing vary by state and applicant. Always verify requirements with your state licensing board and confirm policy terms directly with your carrier before relying on this information.