How much should I charge to pet sit?
If you are like most professional pet sitters (and especially if you are just starting out), you likely want to know "How much should I charge for my pet-sitting services?" It's a question we get a lot at Pet Sitters International, but it can be a difficult one to answer.
Service providers, including pet sitters and dog walkers, are prohibited from collectively discussing specific pricing details because of anti-price fixing laws. (Sidenote: If you are involved in any online pet-sitter forums or chat groups on Facebook or other sites, please understand the anti-price fixing rules apply there as well.)
However, PSI's 2016 State of the Industry Survey included questions on rates and services, and we are able to share that information with you.
Download PSI's free white paper, How much should I charge for my pet-sitting services?
PSI's free white paper outlines the averages for various services offered by professional pet sitters and dog walkers, including basic pet-care visits, dog walking and overnight sits.
Keep in mind that the free resource provides averages, and rates do vary by location—but give some thought to the fees listed—are they on target with yours? Are yours quite a bit higher, or much lower?
If your rates are much lower than those listed in How much should I charge for my pet-sitting services?, take a close look at your fees to ensure you are charging what you are worth—and that you’ve also set fees that can sustain your business.
PSI President Patti J. Moran
A Word of Advice
"You have to remember all the expenses that go into the professional pet-care services you're providing. And you have to believe that you're worth it and be ready to explain to surprised customers that there is more to this business than simply putting out some pet food. Once customers understand the value of your services, price is usually not a deterrent."
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Wendy