To get bonded as a pet sitter, apply for a commercial dishonesty bond through insurance providers like NFP, Surety1, or Business Insurers of the Carolinas. This bond (often costing $100–$400/year for a $10,000 bond) protects clients against theft by you or your employees. It is usually purchased alongside liability insurance to offer comprehensive "insured and bonded" protection.

What does it mean for a pet sitter to be bonded?

A pet sitting fidelity bond covers accidents that may affect the client's pets or property while the pet sitter is on an assignment. A type of fidelity bond, this bond also usually insures a business in the event an employee steals from a client.

Is it better to be bonded or insured?

The primary difference between the two is that your insurance protects you, and a bond protects a third party. If you own a business and experience a fire on your premises, your insurance would cover the damages. The Small Business Administration , does a great job discussing surety bonds.

Can you pet sit without a license?

If you are talking about in general, no. If say you are watching a friend's dog for the weekend, you do not need a license. However, if you are going to have this as your profession, you may need a license.

How to get certified as a pet sitter?

In order to obtain this certification, pet sitters must:

1. Be a member of PSI.
2. Pass the CPPS Exam (80% or higher score required)
3. Agree to PSI's Recommended Quality Standards.
4. Agree to PSI's Member Code of Conduct and Ethics.
5. Complete 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years.

Are you bonded and insured?

How much does it cost to become a certified pet sitter?

How much is the CPPS-Certified Professional Pet Sitter Exam? The standard application fee for the CPPS Exam is $275 (USD). Occasionally, PSI may offer a discounted application fee. Please contact PSI to inquire about any current discounts available.

What insurance do I need for pet sitting?

Understanding public liability insurance for pet sitters

This is the foundation of any insurance policy, covering injury to third parties and damage to their property. Consequently, it protects you from claims made against you by your clients or members of the public.

How do you become bonded?

If you do need to be bonded and insured, follow these five easy steps:

1. Determine your bond and insurance requirements.
2. Purchase an insurance policy from a trusted provider.
3. Apply for and purchase your surety bond from SuretyBonds.com.
4. File your bond with the obligee.
5. Renew coverage annually, or as needed.

How do I get licensed and bonded?

While the requirements for a contractor to become licensed and bonded vary, most applicants must follow these six general steps:

1. Step 1: Register your business with the state. ...
2. Step 2: Research licensing requirements. ...
3. Step 3: Purchase insurance coverage. ...
4. Step 4: File a surety bond. ...
5. Step 5: Complete an examination.

Do I have to report pet sitting income?

Should pet-sitting and dog-walking business owners file taxes quarterly or annually? Like most tax answers, it depends. The owners will file taxes annually, no matter what—but could be required to make quarterly payment if their income is high enough throughout the year.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The "7 7 7 rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, originally by Pat Hastings, suggesting exposing puppies to 7 different people, 7 different locations, and 7 different surfaces/objects/sounds/challenges (variations exist) by about 7 weeks old to build confidence, resilience, and prevent fear or anxiety as adults. Key experiences include meeting diverse individuals, visiting different places like a vet's office or friend's house, walking on various substrates (grass, tile, carpet), and encountering new objects and gentle challenges (like tunnels or boxes).
 

What is the 7 second rule for dogs?

The "7-second rule" for dogs is a simple test to see if pavement is too hot for their paws: press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds, and if it's too hot for you to hold comfortably, it's too hot for your dog's paw pads, which can easily burn on surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and even artificial turf. This helps prevent paw burns by prompting you to walk during cooler times (early morning/late evening) or stick to grass, as tarmac can get extremely hot even on moderately warm days.
 

How much to pay a pet sitter for 3 days?

For 3 days, you'd likely pay $180-$300 for basic drop-in visits (multiple per day) or $180-$300+ for an overnight stay, depending on services, location, and number/type of pets; overnight care often costs $60-$100 per night, while multiple daily drop-ins (30-60 mins each) range from $20-$50 per visit. Expect higher rates for extra pets, complex needs (like medication), holidays, or 24/7 care. 

Is there a demand for pet sitting?

With more pet parents seeking dependable, in-home care for their pets, the demand for professional pet sitters continues to grow. In fact, the 2025 APPA National Pet Owners Survey indicates 94 million U.S. households own a pet and $152 billion was spent on pets in 2024 in the U.S. alone.

Should the dog sitter stay overnight?

Absolutely — and for many pet parents, it's the best option available. Unlike boarding facilities, overnight sitting allows pets to remain in a familiar environment with consistent care, companionship, and routine.

What is the 5 second rule for walking dogs?

The 5-second rule for dog walking is a safety test for hot pavement: place the back of your hand on the surface (asphalt, concrete, sand) for five seconds; if it's too hot for you to hold comfortably, it's too hot for your dog's paw pads, which can burn quickly, requiring you to walk earlier/later or use booties to prevent pain and injury.

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