How to Make Money at Home: Dog Sitting

Dog sitting in your home is an excellent way to earn extra money! If you're a dog lover, have or need a flexible work schedule, and would like a little extra money, go for it! Dog sitting is also an excellent idea for teens who may be too young to get a job or can't find a job.

Before you start dog sitting in your home, develop a questionnaire for the dog's owner to fill out. Make sure to ask for important information, such as:

The dog's immunization/shot record.
Veterinarian's name, phone number, address, and office hours.
Emergency or after hours vet care contact information.
Where the dog owners are going, how long they'll be gone, their cell phone number and a landline.
General information about temperament and quirks, like if the dog is scared by thunder.
Feeding schedule.
Sleep habits. For example: What time does the dog usually go to sleep and wake up? Does the dog sleep on the floor, or in a bed, or in a kennel? With or without blankets and toys?
Allergies.

When the dog owner drops the dog off, make sure he's left:
Dog food and treats.
Any medication the dog takes on a regular basis.
Something from the dog's home, like a blanket or towel, that smells like home.
The dog's favorite toy.
Leash.
Crate, kennel, or dog bed, if the dog sleeps in one.
Dog tags or copy of dog license.

How to promote your at-home dog sitting service:

The best advertising is word of mouth. Start by connecting with people who know that have dogs and may need dog sitting services.
Make flyers and business cards on you home computer.
Speak to you veterinarians office about leaving flyers in the waiting room.
Post flyers and business cards on bulletin boards at pet stores, grocery stores, and public library.
Post flyers on telephone poles in your neighborhood

Additional tips for dog sitting in your home:

Check your local zoning ordinances on how many dogs you can have in your home, what constitutes a business in a residential area, and if you need licensing. (In most cases, you don't need licensing unless you're considered a kennel.)

Also consider offering "doggie day care" for people who work long hours or need just a few hours of dog care. Another way to make extra money is to offer dog walking while people shop or run errands.

Check kennel, doggie day care, and dog walking prices in your area to price yourself competitively.