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As a professional pet sitter, protecting your clients, their pets, and your business is part of the job. Just as important, you want clients to clearly understand what services you provide, your policies, and what’s expected of them.

The simplest way to make sure everyone is on the same page?

A well-written pet-sitting contract.

A quality pet-sitting contract (sometimes called a services agreement) is one of the must-do steps to starting a successful pet-sitting business and is also included in PSI's Global Standards for Professional Pet-Sitting and Dog-Walking Businesses. It clearly defines your services, sets expectations, and helps protect you if questions or disputes arise.

While it may be tempting to download a free template or draft your own contract, it’s important to remember that your pet-sitting contract is a legal document. Laws and requirements vary by state and locality, and a contract that isn’t compliant could leave your business vulnerable.

Combined with pet-sitter liability insurance, a legally sound contract is one of your strongest protections. Investing the time—and, if needed, professional legal guidance—can save you significant stress later.

What should your pet-sitting contract include?

As you begin to prepare a pet-sitting service contract, here are six items you want to be sure to include:

1. Services provided/frequency of visits: Be sure to include what services you will be providing (feeding, play time, dog walks, etc.), as well as the frequency (how many times a day will you visit.)
   
   
2. Medical and behavior history of pet/s: Note any health conditions or medications the pets may need. Also ask about the pet’s temperament (shy around new people, etc.) This is an important time to also determine if the pet has ever shown aggressive behavior towards people or other pets.
   
   
3. Pet’s routine: Make notes about important routines, such as a dog’s typical feeding time and location. It’s also important to find out any particular hiding places or any special toys the pet may like. Other questions to ask may be if a particular pet likes the television or radio on or if there is a specific path the dog likes to be walked?
   
   
4. Home rules: Make sure you understand what the pet owner prefers and what is allowed/not allowed in regards to their home. Is there a specific temperature the thermostat should be set on while the pet owner is away? Is it okay for you to use their restroom when you stop by for daily visits? For overnight visits, are there any off-limit areas and are you allowed to use their tools and appliances, such as the refrigerator or wireless internet? Also, be sure to note the keys and alarm codes information to ensure you have access into the home for your visits.
   
   
5. Prices and payments: Make sure your clients know your rates. Be sure to include terms of payment information in the pet-sitting contract. Will your client be required to pay a deposit at the time of booking, leave the full payment at the first visit or possibly be billed at the conclusion of the assignment? Also, note which forms of payment you accept—cash and check only? Credit cards?
   
   
6. Client contact information: You not only want to document your clients’ home contact information, you also need contact information to reach the client while they are away, if necessary. This may include the client’s cell phone number or a number to reach them at their travel destination (hotel, etc.) You will also want to note an emergency contact—possibly a friend or family member—that should be contacted if you are unable to reach the pet owners in the event of an emergency.

This list is not all-inclusive, but provides an outline of information you want to be sure to capture in your pet-sitting contract. Each pet-sitting service is unique and your pet-sitting contract will need to be tailored to address the specific services you offer and any specific policies and procedures your pet-sitting business follows. 

Pet Sitters International also offers a downloadable Pet Sitting Service Contract  package that includes a pet-sitting services contract, permission to administer medications form and telephone reservations contract. Pet-care profile sheets for various pet types are also available.

Other pet-sitting forms to consider:

Besides your pet-sitting contract, you will likely find several other forms very helpful to use in your pet-sitting business. As a professional pet-care provider, it’s essential you plan for emergency situations that could arise, so you should also use these pet-sitting forms:

Veterinary Notification/Emergency Pet Care Authorization Form: Clients complete this form to notify their veterinarian that their pets will be in your care and authorize them to extend care in their absence.

Emergency Pet Guardianship Form: This form documents who should be contacted in the event that a client is unable to return and assume care of their pet(s).

PSI members get access to both forms in PSI's Emergency Forms Bundle, which is available free or charge to members. 

Not a PSI member? Learn more about PSI's member benefits.