Paid house and pet sitter

Homeowners going on holiday or away for work, especially people with dogs, cats or other pets who would rather not use kennels or catteries.

A fee per night or per stay, usually higher for more pets, medication, or longer or busier days. Some clients also book regular short visits.

• Reliable and trustworthy
• Confident with pets
• Good communication with owners
• Calm when things go wrong

• Insurance that covers damage, pets in your care and keys, check what a policy actually includes
• If you rent or live in shared housing, check your own tenancy rules if clients ever visit you
• Written agreement covering dates, duties, emergency vet contacts and what happens if plans change
• Check with your council whether any licence applies if pets ever stay at your own home instead, as boarding can need one
• Bookings can be patchy and peak in school holidays, so don't count on steady income at first

Startup costs are typically around £50 to £400, depending on the insurance you choose and how you find clients. These are estimates, so check what a policy actually covers, including damage, pets in your care and keys.

Monthly revenue is typically around £200 to £1,500, depending on how many stays you book and how long they last. These are estimates, and bookings can be patchy and peak in school holidays, so don't count on steady income at first.

Check that your insurance covers damage, pets and keys, and agree a written agreement covering dates, duties and emergency vet contacts. Check with your council whether any licence applies if pets ever stay at your own home, as boarding can need one.