Finding pet sitting jobs in your area requires a mix of online platforms, local networking, and smart marketing. Here's how to build a steady stream of pet sitting clients.
Online Platforms
- Tails: Join as a provider — 10% fee (lowest in the industry), interview-vetted, insurance included. Best for Chicago-area sitters who want to keep more of their earnings.
- Rover: Largest pet care marketplace. 20% provider fee + 11% parent fee. Good booking volume nationwide.
- Wag: On-demand model with ~40% fee. Lower earnings per booking but can fill schedule gaps.
- Care.com: Multi-service marketplace. Pet owners pay subscription to access your profile.
Local Networking Strategies
- Nextdoor and Facebook groups: Post your services in neighborhood pet owner groups. Include your experience, rates, availability, and photos with animals.
- Veterinary clinics: Ask local vets if you can leave business cards. Many pet owners ask their vet for sitter recommendations.
- Dog parks: Spend time at popular dog parks during peak hours. Bring business cards and have natural conversations about your services.
- Pet supply stores: Independent stores often have community boards. National chains (PetSmart, Petco) sometimes allow bulletin board postings.
- Word of mouth: Tell everyone you know — friends, family, coworkers. Personal referrals convert at the highest rate.
Types of Services to Offer
- Boarding (pet stays at your home): $35–$75/night — the highest-earning pet sitting service type
- House sitting (you stay at client's home): $50–$100/night
- Drop-in visits: $20–$35 per 30-minute visit
- Doggy daycare: $25–$45/day at your home
Earning Potential
Drop-in visits: $20–$35 per 30-minute visit. Daytime sitting: $35–$55 per day. Overnight stays: $40–$85 per night. Part-time (10–15 visits/week): $15,000–$25,000/year. Full-time (25–35 visits/week + overnights): $35,000–$55,000/year.
The pet sitting industry is growing at approximately 11% annually, making now an excellent time to establish your business.
Building a Strong Profile
Whether on platforms or marketing independently, include: professional photos (with animals), detailed bio highlighting experience, certifications (pet first aid), specific services offered, your availability, and client testimonials. Respond to inquiries within 1 hour — fast response time is the #1 factor in getting booked. Read our dog walking and pet care jobs guide for more strategies.