A job as a pet sitter is a desirable career path for many people. Combining a love for animals, varying locations, client interaction, and flexible hours – it’s easy to see why working as a pet sitter would be so appealing. A passion for animals is essential for work in this sector, however, it does require an excellent level of communication, customer service, and the ability to adapt to new environments. These skills are also vital for anyone looking to embark on a career as a pet sitting business owner.
Why start a pet sitting business?
As the owner of a pet sitting business, you will have full control over your working hours and can tailor shift patterns to suit you. You can take on as many or as few clients as you wish, taking opportunities to interact with and care for a range of different pets and different breeds. Pet sitting offers a wonderful opportunity to travel to new locations, which could be around your local area and around the UK. Some people even take pet sitting jobs when they go abroad as an alternative to paying for accommodation. As a pet sitter business owner, the choice is yours!
Does this sound like the ideal job for you? Keep scrolling to read our top three tips for starting up a successful pet sitting business.
So, how do I start up my own pet sitting business?
Get a pet sitting qualification – A qualification is a sure-fire way to boost your value as a small animal business owner. By showing potential clients that you have the relevant theory and expertise in pet sitting, you will increase client confidence in your abilities and your chances of employment. At Animal Courses Direct, we offer a unique Level 4 Certificate, Ofqual-regulated qualification in Professional Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Dog Day Care and Home Boarding. This one-of-a-kind course comprises comprehensive units in each area and guides you through the planning and operation side of a Small Animal Business, covering all you need to know to kickstart your career as a pet sitter!
Gain experience – Any pet sitting job, however small, is a good start to gaining some valuable, hands-on experience. If you do not feel comfortable charging at the beginning, why not volunteer your services for a short-time and build up a wide repertoire of experience with different pets, breeds, and locations? Experience is essential to prove to clients that you are confident, comfortable, and capable of looking after their beloved pets.
Get into marketing – To access new clients and customers, your business needs to be visible! Try to ensure you have a dedicated website or Facebook page to direct customers towards your business, and that you have a strong presence across social media to reach a wider group of potential clients.
Become a qualified pet sitter
A career working with small animals or pets can take you in many different directions. You may decide that Pet Sitting is not the right choice for you, however, there is a wide range of alternative small animal jobs available at your fingertips! This could include assisting in a Retail Pet Shop, Dog Walking, Dog Grooming, managing a Kennel or Cattery, working as an Animal Welfare Officer, working for an Animal Charity, plus many, many more.
At Animal Courses Direct, we want to turn your animal career dreams into a reality!
To view our full range of Courses, click here. Or, alternatively, Get in Touch with one of our trained animal advisors who can help you on the path to your dream animal role.
Want to learn more about our Level 4 Certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Dog Day Care and Home Boarding? Click below to view it on our website.
