I currently provide drop ins and walking because I do not have a fenced yard and live in a rural area. I am considering putting in a fenced area so I can provide more full time (overnights) and day care services. What do you consider to be "must haves" and what are not as important? Thanks!
Prepare Your Home • Use baby gates to limit access to areas that are off-limits. • Cover upholstered furniture with sheets, slip covers or plastic wrap. • Remove or hide items that could be easily broken, chewed or soiled. • If possible, relocate house plants. Poisonous plants are not the only problem; any plant may become a victim of an enthusiastic digger. • Remove all loose items from the floor. • Roll up and store any expensive rugs. • If you have delicate flooring, protect it from scratches by placing plastic runners in vulnerable areas. • Hide electrical cords or protect them with plastic tubing. • Secure any items that hang such as tablecloths and runners. • If you have blinds, raise them whenever it is practical to do so. Vinyl blinds are particularly vulnerable to damage. • Be sure that any long, hanging strings or cords are out of reach.
You should also supply your home with crates, X-pens and baby gates, also have a pet first aid kit available. Dog sitters generally aren’t expected to be dog groomers, but it’s helpful to have supplies on hand in case you need them. Brushes for various lengths of coats are the most important thing since brushing helps to control shedding and eliminate any surface dirt
I would make sure you have carpet cleaner, but you don't need to roll up your area rugs, just make sure that the dog(s) get lots of potty breaks and if you have to leave the house, crate or close off any area that you don't want the dog(s) to go. have a "encase of fire" window deco on the window at the front door. If you are sitting a cat close your bedroom(s) cause when a fire happens they will hide under the bed. have all leashes visible if your out for a few hour. toys are a very good item to have on hand when sitting dog(s) and Kongs that you can put natural peanut butter in. if the pup happens to eat something like chocolate use half hydrogen proxide and half water, my friend had to use this when her beagle ate chocolate
Also get First Aid trained and CPR trained. I live in the woods and a kinda rural area. I have a full time pet sitting business. I have no fencing in my yard, I have leashes. I take the dogs for walks once sometimes 2 times a day. I play with them, and give tons of attention. You may find that a lot of dogs just want to cudddle and relax. I only got a few that were high energy. :)
A business license for one thing. Taking money under the table can get you into a lot of trouble. Get insured and bonded(even if it's just you). ESPECIALLY if you're doing it full time. You have to pay taxes on what you get after Rover takes their commission. It sucks, but it's true.