In the Business of Pet Sitting

The idea of pulling in a little extra income isn’t something that most people need to be sold on. But then there’s that pesky question of how — it’s not always easy to fit in another job opportunity outside of your usual grind. And when you do, that opportunity runs the risk of feeling like a drain on your precious free time. How to get around these pitfalls, you ask? Going to a magical land called Rover.com that will pay to you to hang out with four-legged furry friends.

​What everyone’s wagging their tails about 

​Rover, as you can probably guess, isn’t your average side gig. This pet-sitter network is knit together by the experienced pet sitters like you, pet owners who use Rover for a variety of coverage needs, and the trustworthy Rover specialists themselves who make sure the entire experience is marked by strong communication and clear expectations. As a pet sitter (once approved), you have the power to tailor your Rover profile in a way that best showcases your pet-sitting experience and passion for dogs and/or cats. 

​The Rover application

​As a testament to their high quality standards, Rover’s sitter specialists approve about 20% of the folks who apply to become sitters. Applicants undergo a background check to ensure that all dogs and cats in the network are in trustworthy hands, plus Rover asks that you include testimonials on your profile that can speak to your sitting abilities. When approved and creating your bio on your sitter profile, you get the chance to tout your own experience and passion for pet care.

​On the job 

Rover sitting means that you work when you want, with whom you want, and how you want. You can watch dogs and cats for a weekend while their parents are away, provide drop-in visits for walks or general company, and so much more. The Rover profile also makes it easy to outline the kind of work you’re comfortable with and the animal breeds (and sizes) you have the most experience caring for. The Rover site gives you the agency to communicate with potential clients and get a feel for whether a job is right for you, so you never have to accept a job you don’t feel comfortable with or ready for. 

And as for the best part of being a Rover sitter, we don’t need to tell you. Four-legged friends are the best aspect of most things, after all — and this incredible side gig opportunity is no exception. 

Written by Casey Dickson, Rover.com community member. Rover is the nation's largest network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers.