I am thinking of starting a pet sitting business. Would like tips from professional sitters or sites to visit

Question

Do I need training? How and where can I get training, insurance, etc.

Answer 1

You want training first of all you need to keep animals seperated small pens in the back yard is a must for two reasons
1. let's say the animal has a lot of energy and is some what destructive you can't let him walk with you and the other cool animals on a leash so what you have to do to give him excersise is turn him loose in a pen.
2. by keeping them seperated it's easier to take care of them, have 3 x 5 cards with there feeding instructions on it the animals owners last name the animals name because animals respond to there name and all those names are hard to remember
3. spend at least 10 minutes twice a day talking to each animal individually it helps them learn to trust you and you can see clearly any extra needs the animal might have. Never take an animal out of it's cage unless you have a leash on them even if you carry them....lost animals = lost income, and damaged reputation. When handling an animal make sure you wash the scent off after each handling. Some animals react to the smell of other animals. Start off small and work your way up or you'll be sorry, always make sure you can give each animal there 10 minutes each day, and good luck!

Answer 2

Buy the book "Pet Sitting for Profit" by Patti J. Moran. Also check out the website for National Pet Sitters Association.

Answer 3

A book called Pet Sitting for Profit will tell you all you need to know and what type of insurance you need and how to get bonded. You might want to visit websites of local pet sitters in your area to see what services they are offering and what they charge. I had my own successful pet sitting business for 7 years. It can be great fun....but also great responsibility.