This is how you become a top pet sitter in 2025

Author picture Paulien  - updated: 29/01/2025

Want to petsit more often, get better bookings, and have more fun while doing them? Keep growing as a sitter, and you'll attract more, better, and higher-paying bookings. Here are our top tips for a thriving petsitting business in 2025!

blonde vrouw geeft twee rode katten eten

 

1. Communicate professionally

Being a great pet sitter is about more than just feeding the cat or walking the dog. It’s about showing that you take the pet’s needs seriously and communicating clearly and proactively with the owner.

  • Invest in a solid meet & greet
    A thorough introduction where you ask plenty of questions helps prevent issues and ensures a smooth, stress-free experience for the pet.
  • Use the Pawshake diary feature
    Send a daily update with a cute photo and a short description of the day. It only takes a few minutes and shows pet parents that you truly care.
  • Communicate quickly and clearly
    Reply to messages in a timely manner—even if you’re unavailable. That way, pet parents always know where they stand.

2. Attract more clients

Want to attract new pet owners to your Pawshake profile? Make sure you're visible and stand out.

  • Make your profile personal
    Add high-quality photos that showcase your experience with animals. A strong, engaging profile helps build trust.
  • Keep your availability up to date
    Set your free days and available hours in the Pawshake calendar. Pet owners are more likely to make a booking when they see when you’re available right away.
  • Build your reviews
    Ask regular clients to leave a short review. Positive feedback is invaluable for attracting new bookings.

 

Een vrouw komt een kamer binnen bij twee honden

 

3. Earn more per booking

  • Offer premium options
    With Add-on Services, you can add paid extras like longer walks, extended grooming sessions, or pick-up and drop-off services.
  • Review your rates
    Compare your prices with other sitters in your area. If you offer more value, consider increasing your rates.
  • Plan smart
    Schedule bookings in the same neighborhood to save travel time. Use a planning app to organize your routes efficiently.

4. Prioritize pet happiness

Happy pets mean happy owners, and that makes you an even more popular sitter. This leads to repeat guests—pet owners who keep coming back to book with you. Here’s how to improve animal well-being right away:

  • Be patient with dogs
    Always let a dog sniff you before petting them. Avoid intense direct eye contact, as it can feel threatening.
  • Respect a cat’s boundaries
    Never force interaction. If a cat hides, give them space. Use soft sounds or a toy to gently encourage contact.
  • Learn to recognize stress
    Observe the pet when you arrive. Is the dog pacing or unsettled?? Is the cat hissing? Give them time and space to adjust. Check out articles on Pawshake.nl for guidance, like What You Need to Know About Petting a Dog and How to Approach a Cat: Tips to Gain Their Trust.
Vrouw geeft een hondje te eten

 

5: Grow your petsitting business

Reach more pet owners beyond Pawshake.

  • Share your Pawshake profile on social media
    Post your profile on Instagram or Facebook and showcase fun photos from your petsitting jobs (with the owner's permission). Share a short message about why you're the perfect pet sitter.
  • Partner with local pet stores or vets
    Ask if you can leave a flyer or business cards in exchange for recommending their services to your clients.
  • Join a petsitting community
    Look for Facebook groups or forums where sitters share experiences and advice. These are great places to ask questions, learn from others, and connect with pet owners looking for a sitter in your area.

With these tips, 2025 can be your best year as a pet sitter. Open the Pawshake app on iOS or Android, update your profile, and go for it!