If you’re looking to earn extra income, love animals, and crave flexibility in your work schedule, pet sitting might just be the perfect opportunity. In the United States, more and more people are discovering the financial and emotional rewards of becoming a professional pet sitter. With the potential to earn up to \$35 per hour or more, this side hustle—or even full-time gig—is an excellent way to make money while doing something you genuinely enjoy.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to get started as a pet sitter, what qualifications you might need, platforms where you can find pet sitting jobs, how to increase your hourly rate, and ultimately how you can begin earning \$35/hour or more. If you’re ready to dive into this furry, fun-filled job, keep reading.
Why Pet Sitting Is Booming in the U.S.
Meanwhile, here are the reasons why pet sitting in booming in the United States.
Rising Pet Ownership
As of 2024, nearly 70% of U.S. households own a pet. That’s over 90 million homes with animals that need care—and that number continues to rise every year. From dogs and cats to rabbits, reptiles, and even miniature pigs, Americans are embracing pet ownership more than ever. This surge means that more people are looking for trustworthy, reliable pet care solutions when they travel, work long hours, or need emergency help. Traditional boarding options are no longer the only choice, and pet sitting has quickly become the preferred method of care for many animal lovers.
Additionally, Millennials and Gen Z—two generations known for prioritizing quality of life and personal experiences—make up a large portion of new pet owners. These demographics are more likely to seek out services like in-home pet sitting, reinforcing the industry’s ongoing growth.
Demand for Personalized Pet Care
Pet owners today are deeply invested in their pets’ well-being. Many see their pets not just as companions, but as family members who deserve comfort, attention, and individualized care. This mindset has created an increasing demand for more personalized pet care options, with pet sitting leading the way.
Kennels and boarding facilities, while still widely used, often cause stress in animals due to unfamiliar environments, noises, and lack of one-on-one attention. Pet sitters offer a more intimate alternative, allowing pets to remain in their home environment, follow their usual routines, and enjoy undivided care and companionship. This level of personalized service isn’t just a luxury—it’s becoming an expectation.
The Remote Work Revolution
The post-2020 world has seen a significant shift toward remote and hybrid work models, and with that change has come a newfound appreciation for flexible careers. Millions of Americans are rethinking traditional 9-to-5 jobs, seeking opportunities that allow them to earn money while maintaining control over their time.
Pet sitting fits perfectly into this lifestyle. Whether someone works from home full-time, freelances, or is in between jobs, pet sitting can be easily integrated into daily routines. A pet sitter can take a midday break to walk a dog, schedule visits around virtual meetings, or care for a pet overnight without disrupting their work-from-home schedule. The gig nature of pet sitting also means it can start as a side hustle and eventually scale into a lucrative full-time business.
How Much Can You Really Earn as a Pet Sitter?
Moreover, here’s how much pet sitting really pay in the United States
Average Rates
While exact earnings depend on your location, experience, and the type of services you provide, pet sitting remains one of the highest-paying gig economy roles with relatively low entry barriers. Here’s a general breakdown of current average rates in the U.S.:
- Dog walking: \$15–\$25 per 30-minute walk
- Overnight pet sitting: \$50–\$100 per night
- Drop-in visits (30 minutes): \$20–\$35
- Extended visits (1 hour): \$30–\$50+
New sitters often start on the lower end, but with consistent service, positive reviews, and added skills, rates can increase quickly. Many experienced pet sitters report earning \$25 to \$35 per hour or more, especially when serving multiple pets or working in areas with higher demand.
Certain cities—like San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Washington, D.C.—have particularly high rates due to cost of living and the density of pet owners willing to pay a premium for trusted care.
Multiply Earnings with Add-ons
Smart pet sitters know how to increase their hourly rate without necessarily adding more clients. By offering value-added services, you can easily boost your income while providing more comprehensive care. Here are some popular add-on services that clients often request and are willing to pay extra for:
- Pet grooming – Basic brushing, nail trimming, or washing for pets that require regular upkeep.
- Training reinforcement – Continuing obedience routines or crate training started by the owner or a professional trainer.
- Basic medical care – Administering medications (oral or topical), giving insulin shots, or managing dietary needs.
- House sitting – Collecting mail, watering plants, bringing in packages, and ensuring the home stays secure during the owner’s absence.
- Holiday or emergency availability – Charging premium rates for last-minute or holiday bookings, especially around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
These add-ons not only increase your overall earnings but also make you a more valuable and versatile service provider. Over time, this can result in loyal repeat clients, referrals, and even waitlisted services in high-demand periods.
Who Can Become a Pet Sitter?
Furthermore, here are the eligibility requirements for pet sitting jobs in the US:
Basic Qualifications
You don’t need a formal degree or specific educational background to become a pet sitter, making it one of the most accessible professions in the gig economy. However, success in this role hinges on a few key personal qualities and skills that help build trust with pet owners and ensure the well-being of the animals in your care.
Here are some of the core traits that most successful pet sitters share:
- Love and compassion for animals – This is the foundation of any good pet sitter. You must genuinely enjoy spending time with animals, understanding their needs, and ensuring they feel safe and cared for in your presence.
- Reliability and trustworthiness – Pet owners are entrusting you with not just their pets, but often their homes as well. Being punctual, dependable, and respectful of privacy is critical.
- Good communication skills – Clear, timely communication with pet owners is essential. Clients appreciate regular updates, photos, and being informed of any issues or concerns while they’re away.
- Basic knowledge of pet behavior – Understanding animal body language, breed-specific tendencies, and common signs of stress or illness can help you better care for pets and react quickly if problems arise.
- Willingness to learn – Every pet is different, and no two pet sitting assignments are exactly alike. Being open to learning new routines, dietary needs, and behavioral quirks helps you provide customized care for each animal.
People from all walks of life—students, retirees, stay-at-home parents, freelancers, and even full-time workers—can become pet sitters. What matters most is your commitment to responsible, compassionate care and a client-focused mindset.
Optional Certifications
Although you can start pet sitting without any certifications, obtaining one or more can enhance your credibility and make you more competitive—especially in high-demand areas or when charging premium rates. Certifications demonstrate that you’ve taken the initiative to learn more about pet health and safety, which can be reassuring to prospective clients.
Here are some popular certification options to consider:
- Pet First Aid & CPR – Offered by the American Red Cross, PetTech, and other organizations, this training teaches you how to handle emergencies such as choking, injury, or poisoning. It’s especially useful for sitters dealing with senior pets or pets with medical conditions.
- Certification from the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) – This comprehensive program covers a wide range of pet care topics, including animal behavior, health, and business practices. It’s ideal for sitters looking to establish a professional edge or start their own pet care business.
- Fear Free Pet Sitter Certification – Designed to reduce stress and anxiety in pets during care, this certification teaches you how to create positive experiences for animals. It’s especially beneficial for sitters who work with anxious pets, rescues, or animals with past trauma.
While not mandatory, certifications can open doors to more clients, higher-paying gigs, and additional trust. They’re a strong investment if you plan to grow your pet sitting service into a reliable and long-term source of income.
How to Start Pet Sitting in 7 Simple Steps
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started with pet sitting in the United States.
1. Research the Market
Before diving in, it’s essential to understand the demand for pet sitting in your area. Start by browsing listings on platforms like Rover, Wag!, and Care.com to observe what services are popular, what rates are typical, and how other sitters are presenting themselves. Look at high-rated profiles to see what makes them stand out.
Consider factors like:
- The types of pets commonly owned in your region (dogs, cats, exotic pets)
- Whether there’s high demand for overnight care or daily visits
- Seasonal trends—demand often spikes around holidays and summer vacations
- Competition—how many sitters are nearby and what services they offer
Understanding the local market helps you tailor your offerings and price your services competitively. You can also join local pet owner Facebook groups or Reddit forums to get a sense of what pet parents need most.
2. Choose Your Services
Not all pet sitting services are created equal. Some sitters only walk dogs, while others offer overnight stays, medication administration, or specialized care for elderly pets. By deciding which services you’re comfortable with—and willing to be trained for—you can position yourself for success.
Here are some service types you can consider offering:
- Dog walking – Ideal for pet owners with busy schedules or mobility issues
- Cat sitting – Involves short visits to feed, clean litter boxes, and offer companionship
- Overnight care – Staying at the client’s home to provide extended attention and security
- Exotic pet sitting – Caring for birds, reptiles, or rodents with specific needs
- Drop-in visits – Quick, scheduled check-ins for feeding, playtime, or medication
- Puppy training reinforcement – Supporting house training and basic commands
The more services you can safely and confidently offer, the wider your potential client base will be. Don’t be afraid to start small and expand as you gain experience and confidence.
3. Build a Profile on Pet Sitting Platforms
Once you know what services you’ll offer, it’s time to build your online presence. Most sitters find their first clients through trusted platforms that connect pet sitters with local pet parents. These platforms offer built-in traffic, payment processing, and sometimes insurance or customer support.
Here are four of the most popular platforms to consider:
Rover.com
- One of the largest pet sitting networks in the U.S. with millions of users
- Allows you to set your own rates, availability, and list specific services
- Offers features like in-app messaging, photo updates, and 24/7 support
- Includes liability insurance and a satisfaction guarantee for clients
Wag!
- Specializes in on-demand dog walking, but also offers boarding and drop-in visits
- Requires applicants to pass a background check and pet care knowledge test
- Offers “instant walk” requests where you can earn extra for quick availability
- Great for those who prefer shorter jobs with flexible timing
Care.com
- A broader caregiving platform that includes pet sitting, child care, and senior care
- Useful if you want to diversify your income or offer more comprehensive home care
- Offers premium memberships to boost your visibility in search results
- Clients can contact you directly based on your service categories
TrustedHousesitters
- A unique platform that connects sitters with homeowners needing pet care while traveling
- Instead of earning cash, you receive free accommodation in exchange for pet care
- Ideal for digital nomads or travelers who want to explore new places on a budget
- Great way to build experience, especially with long-term sitting assignments
Make sure your profile is complete, includes high-quality photos, and tells your story. Talk about your experience, love for animals, and why you’re a dependable sitter. Keep your tone warm and professional.
4. Pass Background Checks
Trust and safety are non-negotiable in the pet sitting business. Most reputable platforms require you to complete a background check during the application process. This step gives pet owners peace of mind and protects everyone involved.
Typically, the background check includes:
- Criminal history screening
- Identity verification
- Driving record (especially important for pet transportation services)
Once you pass the check, a badge or note is added to your profile, making you more appealing to cautious clients. If you plan to operate independently outside of major platforms, you might also consider obtaining your own third-party background check to display on your website or business cards.
5. Market Yourself Locally
While online platforms offer a great starting point, don’t underestimate the power of local marketing. Many pet sitters build strong, recurring client relationships through community referrals and in-person promotion.
Here are some effective local marketing strategies:
- Create and distribute flyers or business cards in pet-friendly locations like dog parks, vet clinics, grooming salons, or pet supply stores
- Use community-focused platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Nextdoor to advertise your services
- Partner with local businesses—offer discounts to customers of a groomer or vet
- Attend pet-related events, festivals, or adoption days to connect with potential clients face-to-face
- Launch a simple website or blog featuring your services, testimonials, service area, and a booking form
The more visible you are in your local pet community, the easier it is to gain trust and repeat business.
6. Ask for Reviews
Positive reviews and testimonials are the currency of trust in the pet sitting world. After each successful job, politely ask clients to leave a review. Over time, these ratings will help you stand out in a crowded field, especially when competing with more established sitters.
Some tips for getting more (and better) reviews:
- Make it part of your closing routine—send a friendly follow-up message thanking the client and asking for a review
- Include direct links to your profile review page to make it easy
- Offer a small incentive for repeat clients who leave reviews (like a free 15-minute extension)
- Keep a collection of testimonials on your website or printed materials if operating independently
Even a handful of five-star reviews can significantly increase your booking rate, so prioritize this from the start.
7. Set Up Your Schedule and Rates
Finally, set clear boundaries around your availability and pricing. This prevents burnout, avoids double bookings, and ensures you’re fairly compensated for your time. Start by deciding how many jobs you can realistically take per day or week based on your lifestyle, location, and other commitments.
To streamline scheduling and pricing:
- Use a calendar app (like Google Calendar or Calendly) to manage availability
- Set minimum visit durations and cancellation policies
- Create rate sheets for common service types (e.g., \$25/30-min dog walk, \$75 overnight stay)
- Adjust rates slightly based on travel time, number of pets, or time of day
It’s okay to start with lower rates to attract initial clients and gather reviews, but don’t undervalue your time or skills. As demand grows, incrementally increase your rates and introduce premium services that justify a higher price point.
How to Earn \$35+/Hour as a Pet Sitter
Here are tips on how to earner higher as a pet sitter in the United States.
1. Target High-Income Areas
Pet sitters in urban environments and upscale neighborhoods often earn considerably more than those in rural or lower-income areas. This is because clients in affluent communities are typically more willing to pay premium rates for convenience, reliability, and peace of mind.
If you’re willing to expand your service radius or commute a little further, targeting these higher-income zip codes can significantly raise your hourly earnings. Use location filters on platforms like Rover or Care.com to identify neighborhoods with high demand and limited sitter availability. Even offering services during work hours in business-heavy districts (where professionals may not have time to walk their pets) can open up lucrative opportunities.
Additionally, pet owners in wealthier areas may have multiple animals or require more specialized care, which means you can charge more per visit. These clients are also more likely to book recurring services and tip generously for excellent care.
2. Offer Premium Services
To move beyond basic pet care and earn top rates, consider expanding your service menu with premium options. These value-added services cater to pet owners with specific needs and allow you to charge more per session.
Here are a few high-demand premium offerings:
- Administering medication – Especially for senior or special-needs pets; some pet owners will only hire sitters experienced with pills, injections, or post-surgical care.
- Senior pet care – Aging pets often need more frequent check-ins, special diets, mobility support, or gentle handling.
- Pet transport – Whether it’s a vet visit, grooming appointment, or daycare drop-off, offering safe and reliable transport is a rare but well-paid niche.
- Emergency bookings – Providing on-call or short-notice services during weekends, holidays, or late nights allows you to charge rush or premium fees.
- Grooming or training packages – If you’re certified or trained, bundling basic grooming (brushing, bathing, nail trimming) or reinforcement of obedience training can push your hourly rate well above \$35.
These services not only justify a higher price tag, but they also demonstrate your expertise and deepen trust with clients.
3. Create Pet Care Packages
Bundling services into packages helps encourage clients to commit to multiple sessions, increasing your average hourly earnings and stabilizing your income. Packages also reduce the time and effort spent marketing to and onboarding new clients every week.
Consider offering packages such as:
- Weekly dog walking – A set schedule of walks per week (e.g., 3 or 5 walks) at a discounted bundle rate. This helps ensure ongoing income and reduces gaps in your calendar.
- Monthly check-in subscriptions – Ideal for cat owners or small pet parents who travel often or work late hours. A 10 or 15 visit package encourages recurring business.
- Pet sitting + house care combos – Combine pet sitting with basic house sitting duties (mail collection, light cleaning, plant watering) for a premium full-service experience.
By structuring your offerings this way, you can simplify client decisions, build loyalty, and create a steady stream of predictable income.
4. Build Your Reputation
In pet sitting, your reputation is your most powerful asset. The more five-star reviews, repeat clients, and word-of-mouth recommendations you have, the easier it becomes to justify higher prices. A strong reputation allows you to attract clients who value quality care and are willing to pay for it.
To build and maintain a strong reputation:
- Always be on time and stick to the agreed schedule.
- Provide personalized care—follow the pet’s routine and remember small details like favorite toys or feeding quirks.
- Send daily updates with clear communication and photo check-ins to reassure owners.
- Follow up after each visit with a thank-you message and an invitation to rebook.
- Politely ask satisfied clients to leave a review on the platform or refer you to friends.
Over time, your reputation becomes your best marketing tool—and clients will often pay more for a sitter they trust, especially for their fur babies.
5. Get Insured
Having professional pet sitting insurance is a simple but powerful way to set yourself apart from hobbyist sitters and charge premium rates with confidence. Insurance adds a layer of protection for both you and your clients in case of accidents, injuries, or property damage.
Many clients—especially those with expensive pets, unique breeds, or specific needs—will only work with insured sitters. Some platforms even require it for premium listings or higher booking tiers.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Basic liability policies typically cover incidents like dog bites, lost keys, or pet injuries in your care.
- Premium plans may include bonding (protection against theft claims) or medical reimbursement.
- Providers like Pet Sitters Associates, Pet Care Insurance, and Pet Business Insurance offer policies starting at around \$10–\$30/month, depending on coverage.
Displaying proof of insurance on your website or profile helps build trust and positions you as a professional who takes your role seriously. With insurance in place, you can confidently raise your rates and compete for higher-value bookings.
Available Jobs Today
🔥 Don’t Miss This – Mechanical Engineering Job Applications – Apply To Win The Available Jobs
Mechanical Engineering Job Applications – Apply To Win The Available Jobs
✅ Full Info Here – Apply for Legal and Law-related Jobs for Easy Approval
🎯 Next Post – Apply To Win Jobs in the Hospitality & Tourism Industry Today
Apply To Win Jobs in the Hospitality And Tourism Industry Today
📌 See Details – Apply To Win High-Paying Jobs in Transportation & Logistics Today
Apply To Win High-Paying Jobs in Transportation & Logistics Today
🔗 Keep Going – Apply To Win Construction & Skilled Trades Jobs in Your Local Area
Apply To Win Construction & Skilled Trades Jobs in Your Local Area
🚀 Explore Now – Apply To Win Agricultural Research Jobs in Tech and Innovation
Apply To Win Agricultural Research Jobs in Tech and Innovation
📖 Discover More – Apply To Win Business and Finance Jobs Successful Tips Today
Apply To Win Business and Finance Jobs Successful Tips Today
🔍 Learn More – Apply To Win Education and Teaching Jobs Today
FAQs
Furthermore, here some of the most Common Pet Sitter frequently asked questions:
Is pet sitting safe?
Yes, especially when conducted through trusted platforms like Rover, Wag!, and Care.com that include safety measures such as background checks, insurance coverage, emergency support, and vet access. That said, pet sitters should always arrange a meet-and-greet with the pet and owner before accepting a job. This helps assess the pet’s behavior, clarify expectations, and avoid any surprises. It’s also wise to carry pet first aid supplies and have an emergency contact plan in place.
Do I need experience?
While prior experience is helpful, it’s not required. A sincere love for animals, a responsible attitude, and the willingness to learn can take you far. Many sitters get started by watching pets for friends or family and then build their reputation through positive reviews on pet sitting platforms. You can also gain experience by volunteering at animal shelters, fostering pets, or shadowing an experienced sitter.
Can I do this full-time?
Absolutely. Many pet sitters have transitioned from part-time gigs into full-time businesses by diversifying their services, maintaining a consistent client base, and establishing a solid reputation. Full-time pet sitters often combine in-home stays, dog walking, daycare, and overnight boarding to fill their calendar. With smart scheduling and proper pricing, pet sitting can become a stable and profitable career.
What if a pet gets sick or injured?
If a pet becomes sick or injured in your care, your first responsibility is to ensure their safety. Contact the owner immediately to report symptoms and follow their guidance. If the issue is urgent and the owner is unreachable, take the pet to their preferred veterinarian or an emergency clinic. Many pet sitter insurance policies include emergency vet coverage, giving both you and the owner peace of mind. That’s why having basic Pet First Aid and CPR training is a must—it equips you to handle situations calmly and confidently.
Benefits of Pet Sitting
Here are the benefits of pet sitting in the US.
Flexibility
One of the biggest perks of pet sitting is its unmatched flexibility. You can set your own hours, accept jobs that fit your schedule, and work as little or as much as you’d like. Whether you’re a student balancing classes, a stay-at-home parent looking for a side gig, a retiree staying active, or someone freelancing full-time, pet sitting adapts to your lifestyle. You can work weekends only, take on last-minute bookings, or build a steady weekly routine—whatever suits you best.
Low Startup Costs
Unlike many other side hustles or small businesses, pet sitting doesn’t require a hefty upfront investment. There’s no need for a degree or expensive training programs to begin. Most platforms will require a background check, which is often free or low-cost. To get started, you’ll need some basic supplies like treats, poop bags, a leash, and a smartphone for updates and communication. Over time, you can invest in pet insurance, training certifications, or branding materials, but your initial costs remain minimal.
Emotional Rewards
For animal lovers, the emotional satisfaction of pet sitting is hard to beat. You’ll form bonds with pets of all sizes and personalities, from energetic puppies to sleepy senior cats. Many sitters describe the job as therapeutic, calming, and a refreshing break from screen-based work or high-stress environments. You’re not just feeding or walking animals—you’re giving them companionship, exercise, and care while their owners are away. Knowing you’re making a pet feel safe and loved is incredibly fulfilling.
Growth Opportunities
If you enjoy the work and want to grow beyond occasional gigs, pet sitting has long-term career potential. With experience and positive reviews, many sitters are able to:
- Start their own registered pet care business with a branded website and custom services
- Hire employees or subcontractors to expand their service area and cover more bookings
- Offer premium add-ons like dog training, behavioral support, grooming, or transportation
- Develop a niche, such as caring for senior pets, large breeds, exotic animals, or pets with medical needs
- Become a trusted local expert and even partner with vets, pet stores, or trainers for referrals
Whether you’re looking to earn extra money or build a business, the pet sitting field has room to grow.
Where to Apply – Get Started Today
If you’re ready to begin your pet sitting journey, you can start by applying to one (or more) of these trusted platforms. Each offers unique advantages and allows you to get in front of thousands of pet owners who are actively searching for reliable, caring sitters.
Rover – Start Your Pet Sitting Business
Rover is one of the largest and most recognized pet sitting platforms in the U.S. You can build a customized profile, choose the services you want to offer, set your rates, and manage bookings directly in the app. Rover also offers 24/7 support, secure payments, and vet assistance coverage. It’s ideal for sitters who want full control over their availability and pricing.
Wag! – Dog Walking & Pet Sitting
Wag! is perfect for those who want to get started quickly with shorter, on-demand jobs like dog walking or short check-ins. Wag! handles the scheduling, client communication, and payments so you can focus on care. You’ll need to pass a quiz and background check to begin, but once approved, you can start earning right away—often within days.
Care.com – Pet Sitting Jobs
Care.com offers access to a wide range of caregiving jobs, including pet sitting, babysitting, and senior care. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to branch out into other services or reach a different audience. Build a detailed caregiver profile and apply to jobs in your area. Premium members receive better visibility and access to more job listings.
Final Thoughts
Pet sitting is more than just an easy side gig—it’s a genuine opportunity to earn meaningful income while spending time with animals. Whether you’re looking to supplement your current earnings, pivot into a more flexible career, or simply do something fun and fulfilling, pet sitting offers a compelling mix of freedom, low startup barriers, and emotional satisfaction.
With more pet owners seeking reliable, trustworthy sitters than ever before, the demand continues to grow. And thanks to platforms like Rover, Wag!, and Care.com, getting started has never been simpler. You don’t need formal training to start—you just need a passion for pets, a sense of responsibility, and a desire to learn.
Whether you’re walking dogs after work, checking in on cats during lunch breaks, or house-sitting for families while they vacation, your time and care will always be appreciated—not just by owners, but by the pets themselves.
Ready to Earn Up To \$35/Hour As a Pet Sitter?
Click below to apply now and take the first step toward getting paid to do what you love:
👉 [Apply on Rover]
👉 [Apply on Wag!]
👉 [Apply on Care.com]
