How to Make Your Pet Sitting Service Profitable

If you love caring for animals you might want to consider starting a pet sitting business.  With the fast pace of life these days, many people are not able to be home all of the time to care for their animals.  By offering your pet sitting services, you can make money while also doing something that you enjoy.

1. Advertise your services.  Create a professional-looking flyer and post it around your neighborhood.  Consider such places as your local coffee shop, pet store, humane society or veterinary clinic.  Always obtain permission from the establishment prior to hanging your flyer.  You also might want to post an ad in your local newspaper to spread the word of your services.


2. Provide estimates to clients.  When a potential client contacts you, be sure to obtain all of the pertinent information prior to providing them with a cost estimate.  Ask them how many animals you will be caring for, the number of hours and what types of care and services the animals require.  Decide whether you want to charge a flat hourly fee or if you determine your prices on a case by case basis.  Provide the client with a cost quote.


3. Provide an in-person consultation.  This is an important step in creating a successful business.  Visit your client and their animals in their home where they are most comfortable.  Create a great first impression by smiling and being friendly.  Get to know the animal and use this time to go over things with your client.  Use this opportunity to discuss costs and payment schedules one last time.  Take the time to bond with the animals you will be caring for, so that they will be more comfortable when they are with you. 


4. Follow through on your promises and provide excellent care.  When you are pet sitting, be sure to follow all of your client's instructions.  Things such as exercise regimens or dietary restrictions are very important.  You should be sure that you are following all of the instructions provided to you.  Provide the best care that you can for the animals.  This gives you the opportunity to develop repeat clients.  Satisfied clients will tell their friends and family about your business, help your business to grow and become more profitable.