Online Class: Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Business

Transform your love for animals into a rewarding career that combines freedom and fulfillment as you build a successful pet sitting or dog walking service. Gain essential skills in client relations and business management while ensuring pets feel happy and cared for in a growing market that values compassionate caregivers.

Self-Paced, Online Class

Library Subscription

12

Lessons
25

Exams &
Assignments
8

Hours
average time
0.8

CEUs

Course Description

Ready to dive into a fun, fulfilling career that lets you spend your days surrounded by furry friends? If you’re passionate about animals and want to turn that love into a successful business, then you’re in the right place! This engaging course will guide you through everything you need to know to create and grow your very own pet sitting or dog walking service, no matter where you’re starting from. Imagine waking up every morning excited to work with pets who adore you, while building a career that offers freedom, flexibility, and joy.

Whether you're looking to walk dogs, cuddle cats, or care for exotic pets, this course helps you tap into a booming industry that is increasingly in demand. Pet owners today consider their animals as part of the family, and they want the best care possible when they can’t be there. That’s where you come in! With this course, you'll learn how to not only care for pets with love and dedication, but also how to successfully manage your business, create lasting relationships with clients, and navigate the ever-growing pet care market.

Throughout this journey, you’ll discover how to turn your natural compassion for animals into a thriving career. You’ll learn how to connect with pets in meaningful ways, ensuring they feel safe, happy, and loved in your care. Picture yourself confidently managing multiple pets, from spirited puppies to calm older cats, while keeping their routines and needs perfectly balanced. Every day is different, every pet is unique, and you’ll be the reliable, trusted professional they can’t wait to see.

But this course isn’t just about animals—it’s also about building a smart, successful business. You'll find out how to attract new clients and build a loyal customer base, ensuring your schedule is packed with happy pet owners who can’t wait to recommend you to their friends. You’ll master essential skills like pricing your services, marketing your business, and maintaining a professional yet personal touch that keeps clients coming back. And of course, you’ll develop strategies to handle any challenges that come your way with calm confidence.

This isn’t just a job; it’s a way of life that brings you closer to the animals you love, while offering a career that feels more like a passion. Imagine the joy of spending your days in the company of pets, watching them thrive under your care, while building a flexible and rewarding business that gives you the freedom to live the life you’ve always wanted. Ready to take that step? Let’s get started, and before you know it, you’ll be living your dream while helping others care for the pets they cherish!

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Areas of Study

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:

"Extraordinarily Helpful"

(2,094 votes)

Lesson 1. From Animal Lover to Pet Care Professional: Think Twice

Building a trustworthy pet care business relies heavily on reliability and good communication to meet client expectations, ensuring pets receive consistent, high-quality care. Being available at varying hours, including weekends and holidays, is essential to maintaining a solid reputation in this competitive industry. 15 Total Points

Lesson 1 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Lesson discussions: Hurdles to Overcome; Reasons for Taking this Course
Complete Assignment: An Introduction
Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Beyond Passion: Training and Planning for a Pet Care Career

Becoming a successful pet care professional requires more than just passion; it demands thorough preparation and an understanding of animal behaviors and business operations. By investing in education and certifications, you set a strong foundation for providing exceptional care and building a lasting reputation. 27 Total Points

Lesson 2 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Your Blueprint for a Thriving Pet Sitting Enterprise

Transform your love for animals into a sustainable career by launching a pet care business with a robust business plan as your guiding star. Protect yourself from potential mishaps with proper planning, insurance, and a solid financial strategy to ensure long-term success. 30 Total Points

Lesson 3 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Mastering the Pet Sitting Business Landscape

Managing dog walking involves careful consideration of dog compatibility and public settings. Responsible practices and clear communication of expectations with clients ensure safe, enjoyable experiences for both dogs and caregivers. 30 Total Points

Lesson 4 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Streamlined Success: Forms Every Pet Sitter Needs

Service contracts are indispensable in professional pet care businesses, outlining specific services and fees while protecting against misunderstandings and legal issues. By including a liability waiver and clear terms, pet sitters ensure clarity and safeguard their business interests. 30 Total Points

Lesson 5 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Practical Gear Essentials for Pet Sitters

Practical attire serves as a pet sitter's uniform, balancing durability with appearance to handle hair, dirt, and weather changes. Lightweight, synthetic clothing, layered attire, and sturdy footwear are essential for comfort and safety against the elements. 27 Total Points

Lesson 6 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Advertising Your Pet Business: From Community Engagement to Digital Presence

Developing a strong brand identity with a memorable logo and slogan can help your pet care service stand out, conveying trust and warmth to potential clients. Consistency across marketing materials enhances recognition and makes your business easily recallable when pet owners need your services. 28 Total Points

Lesson 7 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. The Art of Building Client Relationships

A well-drafted service contract protects both you and your clients by transparently outlining the terms of your pet care relationship. Discussing logistical details candidly, including secure key handling and emergency protocols, underscores your dedication to professionalism and security. 25 Total Points

Lesson 8 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Lesson discussions: Skills, Skills and More Skills
Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. A Trustworthy Walk: Establishing Pet Care Expertise

A pet care professional excels by honing their skills in reading animal anxieties, practicing emergency preparedness, and offering house-care gestures that go beyond pet sitting. Whether it's walking a rambunctious group of dogs calmly or shielding paws from winter conditions, these capabilities cultivate long-term client trust and loyalty. 27 Total Points

Lesson 9 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. Balancing Heartfelt Connections with Professionalism in Pet Care

Embracing both compassion and professionalism is crucial for success in the pet care industry, where the work often transcends pet owners' expectations to form meaningful relationships. By tailoring care to each pet's unique needs and building connections with their owners, a pet sitter can create a trusted and holistic pet care experience. 17 Total Points

Lesson 10 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Lesson discussions: Dealing with Stress
Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Mastering Client Challenges in Pet Care

An apology is a strategic tool to diffuse tension with clients, acknowledging frustration without admitting fault. Offering discounts on future services rather than refunds maintains goodwill and encourages continued business. 28 Total Points

Lesson 11 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam
Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. From Sole Proprietor to Pet Care Leader

The journey to expand your pet care business begins with assessing your current success and recognizing the need for additional help. By carefully planning and maintaining your core values, you can scale your operations without compromising quality. 579 Total Points

Lesson 12 Video
Review 2 Practice Worksheets
Lesson discussions: Your Opinion Matters: Course Rating; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam
Assessment: The Final Exam: How to Start a Pet Sitting/Walking Business

863

Total Course Points

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate the ability to assess personal motivations and readiness for starting a pet care business by reflecting on strengths and areas for improvement.
Recognize the key characteristics and skills required to succeed in the pet care industry, including animal behavior understanding, reliability, and business acumen.
Define the initial steps to establish a pet care business, including obtaining necessary certifications and completing pet first aid training.
Demonstrate knowledge of canine behavior by identifying signs of distress or anxiety in dogs and applying appropriate intervention techniques.
Demonstrate the ability to identify and outline necessary insurance and legal protections required for operating a pet sitting or dog walking business.
Describe the key components of a business plan for a pet care business, including purpose, marketing strategy, and financial planning.
Define a systematic approach for setting fees in a pet care business including market research and cost analysis.
Identify and implement effective scheduling methods to ensure timely and organized management of multiple client appointments in a pet care business.
Demonstrate how to use time sheets and invoices to ensure transparent client interactions and maintain financial health through accurate billing and service tracking.
Recognize the importance of comprehensive client and pet information forms in building trust and tailoring services to meet individual pet care needs.
Describe the ideal clothing and footwear choices for different weather conditions to ensure comfort and safety during pet sitting and dog walking.
Identify essential items to carry for pet sitting and transportation to effectively handle emergencies and ensure pet safety.
Define the core elements of a strong brand identity for a pet-sitting business, including logo and slogan creation.
Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.

Additional Course Information

Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online

View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

Course Title: Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Business

Course Number: 7550131

Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (2,094 votes)

Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries

Availability: This course is offered online and is accessible in every state across the U.S., including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. Learners in English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and South Africa can also enroll.

Last Updated: December 2023

CEU Value: 0.8 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)

CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.

Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes

Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams

Instructor: Cathleen Chouinard

Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

"Enjoyed the course! It was nice being able to learn on my own schedule." -- Lavonne D.
"This course is amazing and also the instructor with the detailed email responses." -- Deneshia H.
"It was straight to the point. The key information was there. It was perfect for my needs. Course was brilliant, so perfect it was scary!" -- Brandy N.
"All of the lessons explained things in detail." -- Sharon E.
"I found the CONCEPT of each lesson most helpful. In each case I was surprised to find there were so many things I had not known about - or perhaps would not have thought of in starting out as a pet sitter. People would say to me, "How much is there to know?" and I would answer, "Have you thought of THIS or THAT?" - and in each case the person would have to answer, "Yes, I had not thought of this or that." I found the form samples most helpful and I certainly learned a lot in the marketing section. Thanks for a great fun course." -- Marion S.
"I enjoyed taking the course and found it very informative." -- Pamela P.
"I found this whole course helpful in many ways and really enjoyed doing this." -- Emily K.
"It was all very helpful for me to obtain the knowledge I need to start a dog walking business." -- Arthur B.
"I found the billing and how to handle different types of animals and about their needs most helpful." -- Mary B.