Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Pet Sitter

Each Thursday, I’m highlighting a work-from-home job or business.


Job Description: A pet sitter looks after animals while the owner is away at the owner’s home. Most pet sitters feed, play and walk the animal.

Education: None required.

Skills: A love of animals and experience in caring for them.

Job outlook: The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) relates that “employment of animal care and service workers is expected to grow 21 percent over the 2008–18 decade, much faster than the average for all occupations. … Due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupation, job opportunities for most positions should be excellent. The need to replace pet sitters, dog walkers, kennel attendants, and animal control and shelter workers leaving the field will create the overwhelming majority of job openings.” Check out the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for more details

Possible employers: Neighbors and friends are good places to start advertising your pet sitting business. Begin in your surrounding neighborhoods and expand out as your business grows.

Preparation: Consider receiving certification through the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, which has two-stage, home-study certification program for pet care professionals.

Get your foot in the door: Contact local veterinarians offices to see about placing flyers advertising your business on bulletin boards. Volunteer at the local animal shelter to connect with other animal lovers and potential clients.

Until next time,

Sarah