After our recent post on how to make a little extra money while still at school, we thought we’d follow it up with this. If you’re part of the majority of people in the universe- you love pets! Wouldn’t it be great if you could turn that passion into cash? Look no further.

Pet-sitting is a great part-time job to have while still at school! If you love animals, it’s basically getting paid to do something you already love to do. Not to mention how flexible it is! The hardest part about pet-sitting is finding pets to sit (not on). We’ve gathered some useful ways to help you get connected to potential clients!

1. Pawshake

Pawshake is a website that helps to connect pet sitters with pet owners! You’re in control of what animals you end up taking care of. Signing up and starting your profile is free, you can list your own price and then start pet-sitting! Be mindful that once you get a job, you’re required to pay 19% back to Pawshake. The benefits of Pawshake is that it’s a very safe and secure website, it’s been around for a while. You also are able to target a more niche market.

2. Mad Paws

Mad Paws is very similar to Pawshake. It offers a similar type of posting to Pawshake and you’ll still get the same benefits of choosing your own clients as well as price. Again, the good thing about going through sites like Pawshake and Mad Paws is the extra security, as well as insurance (for you and the owners) for when you host.

3. Gumtree

Another way to advertise yourself as a dog-sitter is to create ads on Gumtree. Gumtree has a wider audience and is generally used by more people, so more people will probably see your ad. Gumtree is also easy and free to list. Gumtree isn’t as secure as the other websites, so there will be no extra fees but also less security for you and the owner.

4. Facebook

If you’re serious about starting a pet-minding business, we recommend that you start your own Facebook Page! This will allow you to have a website of sorts and allow people to contact you easily and directly. It’s easy for people to leave you reviews and for you to get exposure. Setting up your own Facebook page will help you look more professional and give people somewhere they can contact you easily, as well as find testimonials etc.

5. The Old-fashioned Way

The old-fashioned way to advertise your pet-sitting expertise can be quite time-consuming. Doing things like dropping flyers to your neighbours, putting up posters or simply just taking the opportunity to ask people you see (walking dogs etc.) if they need dog-walking or pet sitting. You can also take advantage of pets of family and friends, offering to look after them! If you do a good job, they’re likely to recommend you to their friends.

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Pet-sitting is a great way to make money– especially if you love animals! Despite this, it’s important not to take it lightly as you are responsible for another life here! If you’re having trouble finding people to let you dog-sit, perhaps you can start by walking dogs first.

Good luck!