How Much Does a Pet Sitter Make?

Pet sitting is a popular job for people who love animals and want to earn extra money. But how much do pet sitters actually make? The answer depends on a number of factors, including the type of pet sitting services offered, the experience of the pet sitter, and the location of the job.

Factors That Affect Pet Sitting Rates

The following factors can affect how much a pet sitter makes:

Type of pet sitting services: Some pet sitters only provide basic services, such as feeding and walking pets, while others offer more comprehensive services, such as pet grooming, overnight stays, and administering medication. The more comprehensive the services, the higher the rates.

Experience: Pet sitters with more experience typically charge higher rates than those with less experience.

Location: Pet sitting rates can vary significantly depending on the location of the job. Rates tend to be higher in large cities than in rural areas.

Average Pet Sitting Rates

According to Care.com, the average hourly rate for a pet sitter in the United States is \$17.50. However, rates can range from as low as \$10 per hour to as high as \$30 per hour or more, depending on the factors mentioned above.

In addition to the hourly rate, pet sitters may also charge for additional services, such as overnight stays, holiday care, or pet transportation. The cost of these services can vary, so it is important to get a quote from the pet sitter before booking their services.

How to Become a Pet Sitter

If you are interested in becoming a pet sitter, there are a few things you can do to get started:

1. Get training and certification: There are a number of organizations that offer training and certification programs for pet sitters. This training can help you learn the skills you need to provide safe and reliable pet care.

2. Build up your experience: The best way to become a successful pet sitter is to build up your experience. You can do this by volunteering at a local animal shelter or by pet sitting for friends and family members.

3. Create a profile on a pet sitting platform: Once you have some experience, you can create a profile on a pet sitting platform, such as Care.com or Rover.com. These platforms allow you to connect with pet owners in your area who are looking for pet sitting services.

4. Set your rates and book your first job: Once you have created a profile, you can set your rates and start booking pet sitting jobs. Be sure to read the reviews of other pet sitters in your area to get an idea of what rates are competitive.

Conclusion

Pet sitting can be a rewarding and lucrative career for people who love animals and are willing to put in the work. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of success as a pet sitter.