Should I Become a Dog Walker or Sitter? 6 Key Qualities to Consider
You love dogs and are looking to make extra money. But is becoming a dog walker or dog sitter right for you and your lifestyle? Read on to learn the top 6 key qualities we’ve found define a successful dog entrepreneur.
Become a Rover sitter now!1. Passion for dogs (and walking them!)
From the tips of their wet noses to their wagging tails, you’re passionate about dogs and their care. You’re thrilled by the thought of long walks, fetch sessions, and snuggling together on the couch. Even if you don’t currently live with a dog, you love all the things that come with dog ownership. (Even the inevitable poop bags.) The best sitters and dog walkers treat their canine clients like their own family.
2. Flexibility
You have the time to give care and attention to your canine clients. Can you take dogs out every 6-8 hours, at a minimum? Can you offer weekday dog walks? Do you live somewhere that can handle an additional dog for a weekend? Pet parents will want to know that you can spend time with their dog and provide comfort for them when they’re away or at work.
3. Dog Experience
You know what you’re doing. You’ve spent a lot of time with dogs and are confident that you can provide great care. As a dog person, you know what dog owners expect and how to follow their instructions. You’re comfortable with a leash, your pockets are full of treats, and you handle dog park excursions like a pro. Great with older dogs with health problems? A whiz with puppies of all sizes? With Rover, you can highlight your expertise, whatever it covers, in your customizable profile.
4. Organizational Skills
Handling one, or more, dogs is a lot of work! You are able to juggle busy schedules and the needs of different dogs and owners, from administering medication to sending updates for peace of mind. You know what you can take on and are transparent with your clients. You can keep your calendar balanced between Meet & Greets, walks, and overnight stays. Whether you use a spreadsheet, task app, or multiple sticky notes on the wall, you’ve got things covered.
5. Responsible
Dogs are people’s family members, and you understand how important it is to provide great care. You follow owner instructions, keep to your canine client’s schedules, and go above and beyond to make sure everyone is happy while in your care. Dog safety is your highest priority—you supervise your charges and keep an eye out for health issues.
6. Resourceful
You know what makes you special and how to convey that to potential clients. Are you a star baker that loves making diet-specific treats for dogs with allergies? Maybe you are great at finding unique experiences like dog-friendly hikes or pools in your area. From specialized care to taking that perfect photo to put a nervous owner at ease, you strive to impress. Have you volunteered, owned a unique breed, or dealt with a specific health issue? Leverage those special skills to attract owners who are looking for a sitter or dog walker as unique as their four-legged friend.
There’s no “I” in dog walker
Rather than being on your own, Rover helps you promote your business and offers support through our vast network of sitters. We’re dog lovers too and want you to succeed, which is why we offer our sitters and dog walkers marketing materials like business cards and promo codes. Every Rover service you offer is covered by 24/7 support, access to veterinary consultation, and the Rover Guarantee. We’ve got your back with every booking so you can focus on the good stuff: Walking dogs and making money.
We’re always on the lookout for motivated, experienced, and passionate sitters and dog walkers. Keep these six qualities in mind when you’re creating your profile, and you’ll be getting paid to play with dogs in no time.
Join Us as a Dog Walker Today!
