If you love dogs, what could be more rewarding than having a career working with furry colleagues. One such job is as a Dog Sitter - you could do this as a part time option alongside your main job or as a full time career. Here at Jobs for Dog Lovers we’re passionate about working with animals and are here to help you get the job you want working alongside your canine friends. We’ll show you what steps you need to take to become a Dog Sitter and how to establish a successful dog sitting business.
Questions to ask yourself:
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Do you love dogs, but can’t commit to having your own?
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Believe being around dogs will make you feel less lonely?
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Enjoy dog walking to keep fit and healthy?
Being a Dog Sitter gives you the companionship of a dog without the emotional or financial commitment of being a dog owner.
What is a Dog Sitter?
A Dog Sitter may work for themselves, be employed by a dog sitting business or work for a veterinary clinic.
A Dog Sitter looks after dogs when that dog’s owner is unable to care for it because of holiday or work commitments. The Dog Sitter is there to provide care and keep the dog happy, safe and healthy while their owner is away.
What tasks will a Dog Sitter perform?
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Feeding - ensure that the dog owner’s feeding schedule is followed and provide fresh, clean water
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Exercise - ensure that the dog is exercised according to its age and breed. Vary the exercise to help keep the dog mentally and physically interested.
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Affection - Dogs thrive on attention and praise and this affection will help to build a strong bond between you and the dogs you care for.
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Medical Care - If the dog in your care requires medication or medical care while their owner is away, ensure you know how and when to administer it.
How do I become a Dog Sitter?
You will need to gain experience working with dogs and know all about dogs and dog care before becoming a Dog Sitter. To do this you could volunteer at a local dog rescue centre, kennels, vets, pet shop or look after a neighbour or relative’s pet to get used to spending time around dogs.
Personal Qualities needed to become a Dog Sitter
Most importantly, you will need to be willing to work outdoors regardless of the weather!
As well as strong interpersonal and communication skills, an understanding of dogs is essential. As a Dog Sitter, you will be responsible for the safety of the dog in your care which carries a high level of responsibility. You will need to stay focussed and aware of potential problems that may cause harm or injury to the dog.
Do I need to take any qualifications to become a Dog Sitter?
There are no specific qualifications needed to become a Dog Sitter, but having a qualification in animal first aid, animal behaviour or animal care would be beneficial.
Do I need Insurance?
Before starting as a Dog Sitter you should have specialist insurance in place and if your customers are going to grant you access to their homes in their absence, then it is recommended to get a DBS check.
How do I start my Dog Sitting business?
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Advertise locally in pet shops
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List your business on dog websites
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Contact local dog groups, dog training classes and dog agility groups
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Contact your local veterinary clinics
Career Progression
Once you have established yourself as a professional Dog Sitter, you can then start to offer additional services such as:
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Dog grooming
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Dog taxi service
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Dog day care
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Dog training