Last Updated on February 2, 2025 by ellen
Get more clients as a pet sitter by using smart marketing strategies and providing excellent service. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, these tips will help you build a strong reputation and attract more pet owners.
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How to Get More Clients as a Pet Sitter
Pet sitting is a rewarding job that allows you to care for animals while giving their owners peace of mind. It involves feeding, walking, and providing companionship to pets when their owners are away. Get more clients as a pet sitter by using smart marketing strategies and providing excellent service. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, these tips will help you build a strong reputation and attract more pet owners.
I’ve had a small pet sitting business in Vermont for the past ten years. While I am not currently looking for new clients, I used these tips to fill my schedule. Keep reading to be more successful as a pet sitter.
Build a Strong Online Presence
Most people look online when they need a pet sitter. Make sure they can find you easily by creating a website with your services, prices, and contact details. Social media is also a great tool. Post pictures of happy pets, share pet care tips, and ask for reviews. Listing your services on pet sitting platforms like Rover, Wag!, and Care.com can also help you get discovered by pet owners.
It may be more difficult to find clients in a rural area. If you don’t mind driving, consider expanding your service location.
Ask for Reviews and Referrals
Word-of-mouth is powerful, so ask for reviews and referrals from happy clients. After a job, request that pet owners leave a review on your website or pet-sitting profile. You can also offer referral discounts to encourage your clients to spread the word. Sharing testimonials on your website and social media will build trust with potential clients.
Network with Pet Owners and Businesses
Networking can also bring in more clients. Join local pet groups and attend events or engage in Facebook groups where pet owners are active. Partnering with pet stores and vets by leaving flyers or business cards in their establishments can increase visibility. Talking to dog walkers and groomers in your area may lead to valuable referrals as well.
Don’t forget to ask friends that are pet sitters to refer you for clients they aren’t available for.
Offer Special Deals and Promotions
Attract new clients by offering special deals and promotions. Consider giving first-time client discounts to encourage pet owners to try your services. Implementing loyalty programs, such as a free pet sit after a certain number of bookings, can keep customers coming back. Holiday promotions during busy seasons like summer vacations and holidays can also help increase bookings.
Christmas and Thanksgiving were two of my most popular times of the year.
Be Reliable and Professional
Trust is crucial in pet sitting. Always be on time, as punctuality matters to pet owners. Keep pets safe and happy by following all instructions carefully. Sending regular updates with photos and messages reassures owners that their pets are well cared for.
Improve Your Skills and Certifications
Enhancing your skills can make you stand out. Getting certified in pet first aid shows that you can handle emergencies. Taking pet care courses can increase your knowledge of pet behavior, training, and health. Joining professional pet-sitting associations adds credibility to your business and helps build trust with clients.
Advertise Locally
Not everyone looks online, so take advantage of local advertising. Print business cards and flyers and distribute them at dog parks, vet clinics, and pet stores. Community boards at coffee shops, gyms, and libraries are also great places to post advertisements. Talking to neighbors and letting them know about your services can bring in local clients as well.
Expand Your Services
Offering additional services can help attract more clients. Providing dog walking services can appeal to owners who need daily walks for their dogs. Offering pet transportation for vet or grooming appointments is another valuable service. Some pet owners prefer in-home overnight care, which you can add to your offerings. If you have experience, helping with basic obedience training may also attract more customers.
Consider pet sitting for exotic animals as fewer pet sitters offer this.
Stay Active on Social Media
Social media can help you reach more pet owners. Posting daily or weekly updates with pet care tips, cute pet photos, and special offers keeps followers engaged. Engaging with your audience by answering questions and responding to comments builds a connection with potential clients. Joining local pet owner groups and offering advice is another great way to introduce your services.
Provide an Amazing Experience
Delivering outstanding service will keep clients coming back and encourage referrals. Going the extra mile by giving pets additional playtime or small treats, with owner approval, can make a great impression. Personalized service, such as learning each pet’s likes, dislikes, and habits, shows that you genuinely care. Following up after a pet sit to check on the pet’s well-being leaves a lasting positive impression.
Final Thoughts to Get More Clients as a Pet Sitter
Getting more pet sitting clients takes effort, but it’s worth it. By building a strong online presence, asking for reviews, networking, offering great service, and continuously improving your skills, your business will grow. Over time, you’ll have a steady stream of happy clients. Start using these tips today, and watch your pet-sitting business thrive!
Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.