1. How much should I charge as a pet sitter/dog walker in Australia?
   Pricing varies depending on location, experience, and the type of care provided. On PetCloud, pet sitters and walkers can browse average rates in their area to set competitive and fair pricing.
2. What qualifications do I need to become a pet sitter or dog walker?
   While formal qualifications aren’t mandatory, having a pet first aid certificate or relevant experience is helpful. PetCloud offers an RSPCA Accredited course for Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters to enhance your credibility.
3. What should I include in a pet sitting contract or agreement?
   A contract should cover responsibilities, rates, emergency contacts, and pet care instructions. PetCloud simplifies this by providing a built-in platform for agreements during bookings.
4. Is pet sitting or dog walking a profitable business in Australia?
   Yes, with growing demand, it can be lucrative. Signing up on PetCloud helps you access a large network of pet owners to build your client base.
5. What are the responsibilities of a pet sitter or dog walker?
   Responsibilities include feeding, walking, cleaning, and ensuring the pet’s safety. PetCloud provides checklists and training to ensure you deliver top-notch care.

Legal and Insurance Concerns

6. Do I need insurance to be a pet sitter or dog walker in Australia?
   Yes, insurance protects you and the pets in your care. 
7. What kind of insurance is best for dog walkers and pet sitters?
   Public liability insurance is essential. 
8. How do I handle liability if a pet gets injured or lost?
   Prevention is key. But take photos and make notes and gather any witness contact details. In emergencies, your top concern is sustaining the life of the pet, so also contact your nearest emergency Vet and contact the pet owner immediately. 
9. Do I need a police check to be a pet sitter or dog walker?
   Yes, many pet owners prefer sitters with a police check. PetCloud verifies sitters’ backgrounds, ensuring trust between sitters and pet owners.

Finding and Managing Clients

10. Where can I advertise my pet sitting or dog walking services?
    PetCloud is Australia’s go-to platform for connecting sitters and walkers with pet owners. Create a profile and start receiving inquiries instantly.
11. How do I get more clients as a dog walker/pet sitter?
    Building trust and positive reviews is essential. Listing your services on PetCloud exposes you to thousands of Australian pet owners searching for reliable care.
12. What should I include in my pet sitting or dog walking profile?
    Include experience, availability, services offered, and photos. PetCloud helps you create a professional profile that stands out to potential clients.
13. How do I politely decline a pet sitting or dog walking job?
    Be honest and courteous when declining. Through PetCloud, you can easily manage inquiries and refer clients to other trusted sitters on the platform.
14. What should I ask pet owners before accepting a job?
    Key questions include pet behavior, health issues, and routines. PetCloud provides pre-made questionnaires to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Pet Safety and Care

15. What do I do if a dog I’m walking is attacked by another dog?
    Stay calm, separate the dogs safely, and document the incident. PetCloud offers guides on handling emergencies like this.
16. What’s the safest way to transport pets in a car?
    Use harnesses, crates, or barriers to secure pets. PetCloud’s blog features tips on safe pet transport.
17. How do I handle an aggressive or anxious dog during a walk?
    Use calm, confident body language and avoid triggers. PetCloud connects you with professional trainers for additional support.
18. What should I do if a pet gets sick while in my care?
    Notify the owner, contact a vet, and follow instructions. PetCloud’s booking platform provides emergency contact details for every job.
19. What is the best leash or harness for dog walking?
    Front-clip harnesses are a must-have for safety and control of strong or large dogs. You need to ask the Pet Owner to supply this. 

Business Operations

20. How do I start a pet sitting or dog walking business in Australia?
    Create a free listing on PetCloud to access a steady stream of Pet Owner clients and support.
21. What software or apps help manage pet sitting bookings?
    PetCloud‘s app offers scheduling, payments, and communication tools, all in one place.
22. How do I set up a payment system for pet sitting clients?
    Through PetCloud, all payments are handled securely, saving you time, money, and effort.
23. What’s the best way to handle cancellations or last-minute requests?
    Stay flexible and set clear cancellation policies. PetCloud’s platform ensures transparency and fairness for sitters and owners.
24. How do I keep track of my income and expenses as a dog walker or pet sitter?
    PetCloud provides automated invoicing and earnings summaries for easy financial tracking.

Australian-Specific Considerations

25. Are there any restrictions on dog walking in public parks in Australia?
    Some parks require leashes or ban dogs entirely. PetCloud’s sitter resources include tips on finding dog-friendly areas.
26. What are the laws for walking multiple dogs at once in Australia?
    Most councils allow walking up to four dogs but check local Council rules as each Council differs. PetCloud helps you stay informed about compliance.
27. What’s the best way to protect pets from Australian wildlife (e.g., snakes, ticks)?
    Stay vigilant, use repellents, and avoid bushy areas. PetCloud has resources on preventing wildlife risks.
28. What do I do if a dog gets heatstroke during summer walks?
    Act quickly by moving the dog to shade, offering water, and contacting a vet. PetCloud provides seasonal care tips for pets.
29. What are the leash laws in Australia?
    You must have control of a dog in public. Leash laws vary by state but are strict in public spaces. PetCloud’s guides outline state-specific regulations.

Improving Skills and Services

30. What training courses are available for dog walkers in Australia?
    Pet first aid and dog behavior courses are beneficial. PetCloud offers an RSPCA Accredited course for Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters to grow your confidence, and reduce your risk of liability, fatalities, extreme stress, and financial loss.
31. How can I improve my dog handling skills?
    Practice consistency and positive reinforcement techniques. PetCloud’s RSPCA Accredited course for Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters will grow your confidence, will reduce your risk of liability, reduce risk of fatalities, extreme stress, and financial loss. PetCloud’s blog also offers expert advice on dog behaviour.
32. What are the best toys or activities to keep pets entertained?
    Puzzle toys and enrichment games are excellent. Browse PetCloud’s blogs for creative pet enrichment ideas.
33. What are some enrichment ideas for cats or dogs while pet sitting?
    Interactive feeders, play sessions, and scent games work wonders. PetCloud’s blog highlights easy-to-implement enrichment activities and ideas.
34. How do I safely introduce myself to a new pet for the first time?
    Use a calm demeanor and let the pet approach you first. PetCloud provides guidance on building trust with new pets. With the Owner’s permission, you could also bring a tasty treat.

Pet Behaviour and Emergencies

35. What should I do if a dog refuses to walk?
    Check for discomfort or distractions and try gentle encouragement. PetCloud’s blog offers tips for reluctant walkers.
36. How do I stop a dog from pulling on the leash?
    Use a front-clip harness and practice loose-leash walking through positive reinforcement and changing directions. Learn more through PetCloud’s training guides.
37. What are the signs of anxiety in dogs or cats?
    Look for pacing, panting, or hiding. PetCloud connects you with trainers who specialize in managing pet anxiety.
38. How do I handle a dog that barks excessively during walks?
    Avoid triggers and reinforce calm behaviour through rewarding the dog with pats, treats, and praise. PetCloud provides access to expert trainers for persistent issues.
39. What’s the best way to calm a scared or nervous pet?
    Speak softly and offer treats. For more tips, visit PetCloud’s resources on calming techniques.

Marketing and Reviews

40. How do I get good reviews as a pet sitter or dog walker?
    Provide excellent care and communicate effectively. PetCloud’s review system helps you showcase positive client feedback.
41. What’s the best way to build trust with pet owners?
    Be reliable, transparent, and communicative. PetCloud’s verified sitter profiles make trust-building easier.
42. How do I create a pet sitting portfolio?
    Include testimonials, photos, and a list of services. PetCloud lets you showcase these directly on your profile.
43. What social media platforms work best for promoting pet care services?
    Instagram and Facebook are ideal for sharing content. PetCloud boosts your visibility by connecting you with local pet owners.
44. How do I ask for referrals from happy clients?
    Politely request referrals after a successful booking. PetCloud’s platform encourages satisfied clients to leave reviews and recommend you.

The post How to Set up a Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Business appeared first on PetCloud.

How PetCloud supports Health Practitioners and Support Coordinators

As a health practitioner or support coordinator, your priority is the well-being of your patients or participants. When they face urgent hospitalization, or rehabilitation, one of the most pressing concerns is often, “Who will take care of my pet?” PetCloud is the solution that offers fast crisis support pet care, knowing that their pets will be cared for in home-based environment. By recommending PetCloud, you’re not just providing pet care; you’re helping to reduce the emotional stress and anxiety that often accompany sudden hospital admissions.

What is PetCloud?

PetCloud fills a critical gap in Australia’s support services, as there is no other national charity or government service offering this level of tailored, ancillary care support to assist a Participant in fulfilling their legal duty of care for animals while they are seeking treatment. PetCloud’s platform connects Pet Owners to services that are designed to complement NDIS-funded care and address a unique need not covered elsewhere.

PetCloud’s NDIS Support Workers are known for being willing and flexible to visit Patients in hospital car parks with their pets, or nearby dog parks, and with Nurse permission, even bring pets inside the hospital for a short visit.

One of the most powerful things about PetCloud is it’s unique pet jobs board which is a massive time-saver. It’s fast and free to post a job, this sends out a job alert in a 25km radius and available Sitters apply.

PetCloud is a private company partnered with RSPCA Queensland that runs a national sharing economy booking platform and pet jobs board. All bookings are carried out by Service Providers and are paid for upfront through the PetCloud Website or Apps.

NDIS funded Support or Privately Funded Self-serve Care Options

The team at PetCloud recognizes that every situation is unique, especially in urgent or emergency scenarios such as crisis support pet care. That’s why PetCloud enables both NDIS funded Support to be booked, or privately funded weekly instalment pet care options, giving you the flexibility to choose the care that best suits your needs and funding. Whether you require short-term or long-term care, you can search the platform for Pet Sitters who are equipped to handle a variety of requirements, ensuring your pet’s routine remains as stable as possible.

How NDIS funded bookings can get started

Disability support bookings involve more safeguards, verifications, training, and administration so PetCloud provides a dedicated point of contact you can speak to. Request a free quote or Request a call back with our NDIS Bookings Team Member.

How privately funded bookings can get started

Getting started with PetCloud is simple to do yourself (but we acknowledge can be hard if you are in crisis-mode, but give it a try). This way you can ensure your pet is cared for while you focus on your health:

1. Post a Job: Visit PetCloud and post a pet care job in just a few clicks. It’s free and fast!
2. Review Applications: Available Sitters in your area will apply for the job. You can review their profiles, read reviews from other Pet Owners, and choose the best fit for your pet.
3. Meet & Greet: You or your next of kin can arrange a Meet & Greet with your chosen Sitter to ensure compatibility and peace of mind.
4. Book and Pay Online: Once you’re satisfied, pay by booking the service and make a payment securely online through PetCloud. Your pet’s care is now sorted, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery.

It’s Reasonable and Necessary

All Pet Owners, including NDIS Participants, have a legal duty of care for animals while they are seeking treatment. That legal duty of care states that Pet Owners must ensure animals are watered, fed, sheltered.  Pet Owners can face legal prosecution if their pets are abandoned and neglected.

Pets aren’t a piece of furniture to be left in a locked house, unattended to, if a Pet Owner has to go to hospital or respite. They are dependent, living, sentient beings that experience fear, hunger, distress, and happiness – just like humans do.

NDIS Participants are vulnerable and require a high level of security checks and training as the Support Worker may be accessing their home while they are in hospital or rehabilitation, how PetCloud makes that person ready for you is:

• National Police checks
• NDIS Worker Training
• Liability Insurance
• Right to work in Australia
• ABN
• Weekly Timesheets
• Service Agreements
• Quality Safeguards & Feedback

PetCloud is an NDIS registered organisation that has safeguards in place and mechanisms for feedback or complaints. This ensures that our most vulnerable are protected whilst still offering freedom of choice in the way that their allocated funds are spent.

It’s related to their disability

If another major NDIS support has been funded, then an ancillary support to help Participants meet their legal duty of care while they are receiving treatment relating to their disability is necessary. NDIS Preapproval is required.

It’s not funded elsewhere

Watch this short video below by the ABC about how little money Participants get on the Disability Support Pension.  The woman (Madelaine Stewart) in the Video is on $1,002 dollars per fortnight.  Her rent is $500 per week.  This means she has no money left over from the DSP to be able to afford to care for a pet.  

If she goes and gets a job, but if she makes over $204 per week, Centrelink takes fifty percent of every extra dollar. So if a NDIS Participant needs hospital treatment, they actually may have no financial capacity to privately pay for pet boarding – even though its their legal duty of care.

It’s value for money

PetCloud is affordable.

Some People have no family or friends network they can rely on

Why PetCloud is Your Go-To Solution for Crisis Support Pet Care

PetCloud is a trusted, Australia-wide sharing economy platform that connects Pet Owners with home-based Pet Sitters. Pet Sitter services are available in key cities such as Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Newcastle, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Darwin, and Hobart, ensuring that wherever you are, your pets are never far from the care they deserve.

We understand that when you need crisis support pet care, every second counts. That’s why you can post a job on PetCloud within minutes—it’s free and fast. Once your job is posted, available Sitters in your area can apply to care for your pet. You or your guardian or next of kin can then arrange a Meet & Greet with the Sitter of your choice to ensure it’s the right fit for both you and your pet. Once you’re satisfied, simply make a payment online through PetCloud before the service begins. This process is designed to be seamless, allowing you to focus on your recovery while knowing your pet is in safe hands.

Service Areas Across Australia

PetCloud’s platform is national and there are home-based Pet Sitters in major cities and regions across Australia. Including:

• Brisbane
• Sydney
• Melbourne
• Perth
• Newcastle
• Gold Coast
• Adelaide
• Darwin
• Hobart

No matter where your patient or participant is located, PetCloud enables you to search for high-quality pet care is accessible when it’s needed most.

In times of crisis, PetCloud stands as a reliable partner, helping you find pet care for while you get the urgent treatment you need. The national network of home-based Pet Sitters can provide compassionate, flexible, and trustworthy care, so you can focus on what truly matters—your recovery.

For more information or to get started, visit PetCloud today. Book home-based, police checked and insured Pet Sitters to take care of your pets, so you can take care of yourself.

The post Crisis Support Pet Care for Urgent Hospital Admission appeared first on PetCloud.

New research from PetCloud shows while only 3% of their pet carers offering services are over the age of 55, they complete over 20% of all jobs.  They are smashing their younger counter parts, on average completing 600% more bookings and earning over 5 times more income. Many baby boomers don’t the funds to retire but PetCloud allows an affordable and flexible way to substitute their incomes and get job satisfaction.  

PetCloud sitter, Debbie (pictured below) left her 20-year career in pharmacy to run her at home pet sitting business through PetCloud.  “I’m 57 years old this year, and I have the best job in the world,” she said. Offering doggie day care means retirees can have the best of both worlds.

PetCloud is like AirBnB for pets connecting pet owners with pet carers through their national online website.   At PetCloud, there are various other ways you can make money and have a furry companion. Pet Sitters can earn by doing other activities like dog walking, grooming, pet taxi, and doggy daycare services from home.

Jolie loves working with PetCloud.  “I had minded friends’ dogs for many years and after my beloved Jett passed away after 18 years, I was still minding dogs to fill the gap.  People used to say to me “you should be charging for this”.  I was seriously considering starting a pet sitting business, but just wasn’t happy about handing out my personal contact details to strangers…even if they were walking cute dogs!  So, I filed the idea away.  A few days later my hubby pointed out an article in the Sunday paper and said “this is for you”, and I discovered PetCloud.
 
That was in April 2015 and I’ve never looked back since!  PetCloud provide the platform for me to advertise my services on the internet.  Not only do they supply me with a fabulous website, they cover me and the dog owner with Insurance. They provide Support, Privacy, Learning courses of choice and much more.  PetCloud basically does all the work matching me with dog owners in my local area who are looking on the internet for a pet sitter.  “There is serious money to be made!” she said. “It’s an opportunity to run your own business, and you can work it as much or as little as you want.”  

“I’m off to Rainbow Bay for a week over Christmas (all paid off already) and I look forward to sipping a drink on our waterfront balcony.   All thanks to pet sitting through PetCloud.  I love my job!” – Jolie

“PetCloud provides many pet related services for dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs etc.  All creatures need someone to look after them when their owners are away.  Perhaps you just want to do dog walking or mind at the owner’s house.  Maybe you work all week and just want to mind on weekends.  There are a multitude of options available…and you get paid!”

I now feel confident about handing out my business cards, which list my services and my contact via the PetCloud website.  I receive a booking request showing a picture and details of the dog looking for a minder.  If I feel I could mind the pooch, it is then that I give the owner my contact details and arrange a  “Meet and Greet”.  If for some reason it’s not a suitable match, I can decline the booking.       
 
I am blessed to have minded the most beautiful dogs…and they keep coming back!  People tend to have more holidays when they know they can leave their beloved pet with a trusted minder.   2 of my regular fur friends are now my weekly day care dogs as well.  I have bookings well into next year.   Not only do I love the dogs, but I have made good friends with the owners who are mostly local, but I would never have met them if it weren’t for PetCloud.
 
If you think you’ve got what it takes and you really are crazy about animals, visit the PetCloud site and have a look around.  It’s an opportunity to help you run your own business, and you can work it as much or as little as you want.  There is serious money to be made!  Pay off that Credit Card or save for a trip…whatever you want.  

Are you a Senior?  Get your home-based business off the ground today with PetCloud. 

Feature Image: Jolie Wheeler, pictured with her ‘client’ Darcy, finds pet-sitting a good match for her needs.

The post Pet loving Baby Boomers have hit on a Source of Extra Money appeared first on PetCloud.

I love being a dog sitter. It’s a 24 hour job. Dog walking of course is a day gig and you don’t have your four paw staying in your home. In my case I am busy mostly as a dog sitter and included in my fee is a walk. I specialise now in small dogs but I will go to a clients home to feed, walk and play with large dogs ( I can also care for cats and other exotic animals).

During the night I wake up several times and do a quick trip out into my expansive back yard for doggy wee wees. If you don’t do this you might wake up to toileting accidents! Having a torch to check the yard as they go out at night is important so your doggies do not encounter possums, cats, toads and any other possible dangers. So being a dog sitter is a bit sleep disruptive but of course worth it.

Breakfast time is after school drop off… I may take one of my sits in the car if they are well behaved. I have set the back seat of my car up with soft pretty old cushions so it’s comfy and inviting. I always cover seats with something plush with a plastic cover underneath in case there are toilet accidents. Many dogs love the car trip and it settles them right down if they are a little anxious. Note – make sure you lock in your doggies with a dog seat belt and harness. Never attach to the collar.

Note – make sure you lock in your doggies with a dog seat belt and harness. Never attach to the collar.

At breakfast time I assemble my guests in the kitchen and make them wait. They all know what’s coming next …a yummy breakfast!

I feed each pet individually in the order of who has been best. It’s a little bit of a reward… And reminds them if they are well-behaved they will be given lots of treats and special attention.

I do try and train some of my unruly guests, which is a bonus for my human-dog parent clients who are often very busy. After I fill their bowls with their preferred food I take them to a private place away from the other dogs so they can eat their food in peace.

I never let the dogs eat together as …if there is ever going to be an argument …it will be over food!

The meakest,mildest,smallest of the four-legged community can turn into a raging wolf over a small treat… beware and be careful!

I always speak with an authoritative but kind voice. And I probably sound absolutely crazy… But I speak to all my animals like humans, as if they understand everything.

Weather permitting, it’s walk time. I live in an amazing place in Queensland with lake and beach walks. I personally like to walk maximum of two dogs at a time for safety. My dog walks are usually from half an hour to 1 hour. Keeps me fit and it’s the highlight of my day!

Walks on the beach with my furry clients

Then I usually have some chores to do around the house and quite often there is a lot of mopping to do with the dogs bringing a lot of sand in from outside… And my dogs are allowed to lounge around the house wherever they like when I’m busy doing chores.

I do a second round of walks after housework then I have to pick up my daughter from school.

My daughter and the local kids often play with my guests then. I always padlock gates and have many little small gates to block escapees.

I block and lock all exits. Entry by any visitor is under strict instructions to not move my blocks.

ONE NEVER WANTS AN ESCAPED DOG!!! So far so good but in the early days I had a few close calls so I have put several safety measures in place. Always padlock gates… salespeople have come through before and left them open. Luckily I was able to call my doggy guests back but it scared the heck out of me and I think I went prematurely grey! Phew!!! (I recommend this for pool gates too.)  After some yard play…It’s laze about time for dogs in the house… dinner and bed… a bed full of dogs!!!!

We share the bed with all the dogs which makes for an interesting sleep!

My one other big tip as a dog sitter is the importance of socialisation. You’ll learn pretty quickly what dogs work together and what dogs don’t.

I always introduce my dogs without the clients around so that there are no territorial issues.

I make this clear to my clients before they arrive and they will have already seen my house in the meeting greet prior to dropping off the dog.

Within about 15 minutes the dogs are usually socialised and I send a picture to the client. 

Socialisation is the success of my little dog sitting house… I am a gentle but firm pack leader.

And they know from the very start from the tone of my voice and from the treats that I give them that they need to behave and be friendly to the other dogs… And that I will not tolerate naughty behaviour.

So far so good! I think I might be half-dog, half-human…  with the online training PetCloud has, and insurance that comes with every client booking, I would definitely recommend becoming a Pet Sitter with PetCloud!

If you’re a Pet Owner on the Sunshine Coast near Caloundra or Currimundi, you can head to the website to see great Pet Sitters in the area. 

Do you have a story to share with PetCloud? Sign up as a contributor and submit your stories to here. If your story is published on our websites, you’ll go into the draw for some great weekly prizes. You can also join the PetCloud Bloggers Club on Facebook to talk to other writers in the PetCloud community and learn more about how to write for PetCloud.

The post A Day in the Life of a Pet Sitter & Dog Walker with PetCloud appeared first on PetCloud.

Stephanie has always had a passion for animals from a young age. She grew up owning pets and loved every minute of it. Now Stephanie has 2 dogs and a cat which she love dearly and treats them as though they are her babies. 

One day she decided to look more into becoming a pet sitter and found PetCloud. Straight away she knew this was for her! Stephanie is currently a science student at La Trobe University and is wokring towards become a professional in the pet industry as a veterinarian. 

I’ve been with PetCloud for:  3 ½ months
Occupation: pet sitter and full time student
Services I offer:  Minding at my home (overnight or daycare), walking, house visits, pet taxui and visits to vets.

How do you make owners and their pets feel special?

During meet and greets, I always greet owners and their pets with a smile on my face knowing that this could potentially be another client and just seeing an animal gives me a smile!

I give tours of my home and backyard during these meet and greets and talk about funny situations I have encountered with my pets and other pets I take care of.  My home is clean and is a calm environment which helps the new pet settle in and relaxes them as my home is a new environment to them.

During the warmer months, the pets stay in my home as it is quite cool in there and have the fan on and they actually sit in front of it to cool down – so cute!

I treat them as the same I treat my own pets – play with them, give them cuddles, we take lots of selfies and we eat dinner together! I send photos and videos regularly to pet owners to update them on their pet.

What do you find rewarding about being a pet sitter?  

I enjoy watching the new pets have fun in a new environment. They are such good therapy and provide a stress free environment. It gives me relief knowing they are having fun and are happy being with a new family.

I loved all the reviews I have received recently as it has given me a boost of confidence and just knowing that they enjoyed my services makes me really happy.
 

Live in Melbourne and think Stephanie sounds like the perfect match for your pet?
Check our Stephanie’s profile or Book her services here.
 

Tell us a cute or funny story from your pet sitting journey

I had a puppy spoodle staying with me during Christmas time. He was such the cutest thing! He was such a well behaved dog.

One morning, I wake up in my bed with him right next to me. He had snuck in my room early in the morning and slept right next to me. He started licking my face and of course woke me up.

He then wiggled his way into the sheets – with his nose, he started moving the sheets ended up literally in bed with me. The funniest thing ever!!
 

What extra services do you offer?

I provide daily walking as an extra service. It is a very popular service as every dog that I have taken care of needs a walk. 

This definitely increases income but more importantly I provide daily walking to clients as I know it is essential for dogs to get their exercise regularly and leads to a healthy life.

Share your top tips for getting your name out there and growing your client base?

• Make flyers/business cards and hand them out
• Post an add on gumtree/facebook
• Once you get your first client and your first review, it’ll definitely pick up from there and business will boom.
   

How did being an Accredited Pet Sitter help you stand out from the pack?

I think just being yourself. Expressing your passion and love for animals is the one thing a pet owner really appreciates.

I felt as though I did not need to do it as I already have some knowledge about animal well-being and have adequate experience taking care of pets. If you’re someone that feels as though being an Accredited Pet Sitter will benefit you further, go ahead and check it out. 
 

What’s one piece of advice you would give to budding Pet Sitters out there?

Starting off is challenging. You are trying to get your name out there and trying to get your first client.

I found it difficult to get business at first. But do not give up, once you get your first client everything will go uphill from there. Pet owners will start knowing you and your name will get out there real soon.

Finally, just be yourself and be confident in your abilities.
 

Love animals? Become a sitter today and live the dream of being paid to cuddle and care for cute animals!

How to become a pet sitter?

The post Sitter of the Month is Stephanie from Mill Park in Victoria appeared first on PetCloud.

While these are great ways to take time out for yourself let’s explore how to take care of the most important asset in your pet sitting business, YOU!

It is important to take care of yourself when you aren’t working because as a pet sitter a pet owner is placing their beloved pet in your hands and trusting you to be a reliable and responsible carer while they are away.

You probably understand the importance of taking time for yourself, but are you doing it?

CARING FOR YOURSELF SO YOU CAN CARE FOR OTHERS

Aside from the fluffy aspects of self-care, which we love too, here are some self-care tips you may not know:

• Getting rid of the excuse, reason or story that is holding you back in life and business
• Exercising every day: whether it’s the gym, team sports, dancing, walking a dog, or something else exercising has a range of mental and physical benefits including boosting your energy levels, making you feel happier and helping your brain health and memory.
• Eating healthy: treat yourself to good food, you’re worth it.
• You are the equal of the 5 people you spend time with the most, so surround yourself with positive, loving and supportive people. Distance yourself from those who aren’t.
• Forgive yourself for past mistakes and learn from them so you can grow and move forward in you life/business.
• Reading mindset/self-help books, and actually following through with the expert’s advice
• Don’t just go through the motions. Make a decision every day to be present in your life and business.
• If you are having any issues or dealing with past trauma it is ok to need help. Seek a counsellor for a chat.
• Acknowledge when you need to change something and/or get rid of something in your life/business that is no longer helping you personally or as a pet sitter.

Working as a pet sitter or house sitter is an amazing job, but like any job, has its challenges which may require you to be resourceful and adaptable.

As a pet sitter you may often work long hours while managing your clients and their pet’s needs but thankfully with PetCloud you aren’t alone in managing and maintaining your business.

But on top of the feeding, watering, walking, meet and greet, replying to clients and applying for jobs you need to make time for YOU!

Having a work-life balance is so important in any job, so don’t put your health and wellbeing on the back-burner, because how can you provide the best care to pets if you aren’t looking after yourself.
SELF CARE NEEDED! COMMON WARNINGS SIGNS

This is a great time of year to reevelatue your life and business.

Here are some common signs and symptom which are indicators you are over-stressed:

• Chronic fatigue (even after getting more sleep)
• Negative thoughts about your business (constant, not just here-and-there)
• Binge eating/drinking
• Sleeping too much/ too little
• Not exercising
• Letting your house go… like really let is GO
• Lashing out/irritable ALL THE TIME
• Always feeling undervalued and overwhelmed
• Little time for fun with friends/family/significant other

You may be experiencing more than one of these characteristics in your life or pet business, and whether we like to admit it work effects our personal life.

A pet sitter’s care and compassion can take a toll, so please take some time for yourself throughout this year, schedule it in and make time for you!

IMPORTANT! ATTENTION PET SITTERS

If for medical, health or personal adversity you are unable to complete a booking with a new or repeat bookings please contact PetCloud so we can assist the pet owner to make sure a suitable pet carer is found and their work or holiday trip is as unimpeded as possible.

Download the PetCloud App and get Pet Friendly Cafes around you, on the go.
Download IOS: https://apple.co/2PifzXs Android: https://bit.ly/3aFeK2m

The post Pet Sitter Self-Care To Revamp Your Business and Life appeared first on PetCloud.

As Katy grew up she was asked by family friends to care for their animals while away and as she got older word kept spreading. Katy went through a period in her life while in between house and would exchange her pet care services for being able to stay at frinds homes, then she found PetCloud.

I’ve been with PetCloud for:  Approximately a year and a half.
Occupation: Writer and unofficial animal wrangler.
Services I offer:  Minding at my home (overnight or daycare), walking, 24/7 care, excessive cuddles.

How do you make owners and their pets feel special?

I like to treat everyone’s animals as I would my own – with respect and love.

A big part of pet sitting for me is not just about the rudimentary things like feeding and walking pets etc. It’s about making sure that the animals in my care are comfortable with me and in my home. I want them to feel safe and happy in their temporary space so that when their owners return, they are greeted with the same happy and loved dog they left.

I want the owners to feel comfortable leaving their “furbabies” with me and able to go away knowing their animals feel safe and happy being in my company.

I also like to clarify with the owners of the pets if there are any particular behaviours or activities that they want to encourage or discourage in their animals, so that the pets are consistently taught and interacted with while away from their homes.

What do you find rewarding about being a pet sitter?  

I love the fact that every single animal is so very different in personality, whether the same animal or breed or not. I find animal behaviour absolutely fascinating and discovering an animals traits and quirks is definitely my favourite part of pet sitting.

Live in Melbourne and think Katy sounds like the perfect match for your pet?
Check our Katy’s profile or Book her services here.
 

How did being an Accredited Pet Sitter help you stand out from the pack?

I think it puts people more at ease when they see the Accredited Pet Sitter badge. They are able to see that you’ve gone to an effort beyond what was “necessary” to be able to care for their animals.

How did the Accredited Pet Sitter course help give you confidence?

I’ve looked after pets and volunteered with animals for years, so the Certified Pet Sitter course, while not necessarily all new information for me, made me relieved to know that I was doing the right things by people and their pets in regards to pet sitting.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to budding Pet Sitters out there?

Ask the owners questions about their pets! You can never have too much information about an animal in your care!

Love animlas? Become a sitter today and live the dream of being paid to cuddle and care for cute animals!

How to become a pet sitter?

Find local Vets, store your Pet’s Health, etc, download PetCloud today.

Download IOS: https://apple.co/2PifzXs Android: https://bit.ly/3aFeK2m

The post Sitter of the Month for December is Katy appeared first on PetCloud.

Here are some tips on how to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward when meeting pet sitting clients.

• Tidy the garden, pull out weeds, rake up fallen tree branches, nuts and berries, grass clippings, and leaves.
• Mow the lawn. Jim’s Mowing might be handy if you don’t have a mower.

• Pull back the curtains, open some windows, let the light in or turn lights on
• Tie up Pets and introduce them slowly to any visiting pets.
• Introduce pets slowly
• Ask children to sit quietly or play outside for the meeting.
• Sweep and Mop the floor and wipe your benches.
• Have the Visiting Pet’s profile Printed and ready Or Refer to it on a tablet/iPad from your booking
• Turn down the tv, or put some nice music on
• Spray some Glen 20 around to neutralise any odours, burn any nice candles
• Empty your kitchen bins
• Clean your own pet’s food area and bowls. This will show the pet owner you have good standards of care

• Use the Pets name and the Pet Owners Name
• Be a proactive listener, if the owner asks a question, paraphrase any concerns back to them and say “So what you’re saying is you’re after someone who is home of an evening to keep your pet company – yes I am home.” (if you will be home).
• Smile
• Interact with the Pet by throwing a ball for them, patting them
• Ask About the Pets Care routine and any health, habits, and behaviour tendencies
• Talk about your experience and show knowledge of your nearest 24 hour emergency Vet
• Share any relevant animal or pet care qualifications
• Look and smell presentable. Casual clothes are fine.
• Boil the kettle – offer them a cup of tea, coffee or water
• Offer to take them through a tour of your Loungeroom, kitchen, and yard
• Ensure you tell the Pet Owner before meeting if you own other pets, and about any other visiting pets from bookings.

Download the PetCloud App and get Pet Friendly Cafes around you, on the go.
Download IOS: https://apple.co/2PifzXs Android: https://bit.ly/3aFeK2m

The post How To Make A Good First Impression During A Meet & Greet appeared first on PetCloud.

After an injury at a former job, Dee decided to re-assess her career and decide to become a pet sitter with PetCloud. Dee couldn’t think of anything else she would rather do than spend all day sharing my love with all different kinds of furry, feathered and finned babies.   

I’ve been with PetCloud: since May 2016
Occupation: Owner of 4Paws Sitting Services through PetCloud
Services I offer: Minding at sitters home, house sitting, house visits, day care, daily walking and pet taxi services.
Speciality Skills: Currently undertaking the following course: * Veterinary Support Assistant, * Animal Care, * Careers with Animals, * Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation, * Pet First Aid & CPR and * Animal Physical Therapy

How do you make owners and their pets feel special?

I always welcome fur kids with open arms & of course their owners. I like to think of the fur babies as part of my ever growing extended family. 

My house is their house & I’m just here to cater to their every need. They are able to sleep in my bed, they have full run of the house & are able to sit back on the lounge with me at night & enjoy a movie or two.

I also like to report back to the owners with pictures & stories of their fur kids adventure while their away which gives owners that extra reassurance they are are happy & very much loved.

What do you find rewarding about being a pet sitter?

The trust that pet owners have with me to look after their fur babies makes me feel very special. It is a big responsibility to look after other people’s fur kids & to have a lot of repeat customer’s means I’m doing something right.

I also love how the fur kids get excited when they know they are coming to visit & how excited they are when they leap out of the car & run inside my front gate. This is a big reassurance to the owners to know that there fur kids love coming to visit.

Live in Brisbane and think Dee sounds like the perfect match for your pet?
Check our Dee’s profile or Book her services here.
 

What extra services do you offer to increase your income and help out your clients?

I always tell owners I’m open 24/7. I understand how hard it is to leave your pets while your away & understand the first thing they want to do when they return is see their babies.

If someone’s flight arrives back late or they have to leave early – my door is always open.

Being flexible & being able to fit in with owners needs is very important too.
 

How did being a PetCloud Certified Pet Sitter help you stand out from the pack and give you confidenc?

Standing out from the pack is important & having completed my PetCloud Certified Pet Sitter course allows me to do just that.

Having been in the pet industry for over 20 years, I’ve acquired a lot of knowledge in all things animal but the course taught me specific information to allow my hobby to boom into a business. 

When you complete the course you are awarded verification badges that are applied to your online profile and the more badges you have – the more confidence you gain with pet owners.

From past experience, owners are more likely to book a sitter who has proven experience & training than someone who doesn’t.
 

Share your top tips for getting your name out there and growing your client base?

• Social media linking to my PetCloud profile is a great way to grow your client base – starting up a Facebook & Instagram page is a great start.
• Posting stories about your adventures & posting pictures helps spread the word & everyone likes to look at cute puppies & kitties.
• Nothing is better than word of mouth – when the fur kids are happy, the clients will be happy too & more likely to rave about you & your services with friends & family.
• A few of my clients are family or neighbours of previous guests, who have heard about my services and have seen how happy the fur kids come home. So they want that same happiness for their babies

What’s one piece of advice you would give to budding Pet Sitters out there?

Get yourself out there – letterbox drops, business cards, visiting the local dog park & social media are all great ways to expand your client base. With the new affiliation with GreenCross Vets and Pet Barn – pop into the local store & speak with the manager about advertising your services in your local store.  

Love animlas? Become a sitter today and live the dream of being paid to cuddle and care for cute animals!

How to become a pet sitter?

Find local Vets, store your Pet’s Health, etc, download PetCloud today.

Download IOS: https://apple.co/2PifzXs Android: https://bit.ly/3aFeK2m

The post Sitter of the Month for November is Dee appeared first on PetCloud.

Nichola‘s boys have always wanted to have dog but as a single mum it was too costly, so pet sitting was the best option for the animal loving family. Through PetCloud pet sitting, Nichola and her boys have the opportunity to enjoy the love and affection of a pet, but also learn the responsibilities of owning a pet and learn about different dog breeds.  

I’ve been with PetCloud for:  over 1 year
Occupation: Business Manager
Services I offer: I offer dog minding (exercising and dog washes). 

How do you make owners and their pets feel special?

I always explain to owners that their pet will be treated just like one of the family. They will get the same treatment here as they do at home.

We have a cat who eats chicken wings everyday so we always have them in the house and dogs love them too so we basically bribe them with food to like us!! We give them lots of pats and hugs too. They might also get a little more spoilt here with being allowed on the lounge and bed.

What do you find rewarding about being a pet sitter?

Getting to meet all the happy animals that come and visit. We have had a few return customers who are always so excited to come back. I look after a friends dog regularly and he gets so excited to see me even at their place. It makes you feel very appreciated.

My boys actively help me with the pet sitting. They help with the walking and giving them lots of attention. Looking after the dogs has definitely taught them a lot about the work involved with owning a pet and also the rewards.

It’s also given them a chance to experience different breeds to see what they like. My eldest would like to say he likes the big tough dogs but I think his favourite has been Lily the little white Maltese.

Live in Sydney and think Nichola sounds like the perfect match for your pet?
Check our Nichola’s profile or Book her services here. 

What extra services do you offer to increase your income and help out your clients?

I’m happy to pick up or drop off pets. I will also wash them if required. 

Tell us about a cute or funny story while pet sitting?

My eldest son has always wanted a Husky so when the opportunity appeared on PetCloud to take on one he made me jump at it. An 11 month old Husky in a terrace house was optimistic, we had to think outside the box for exercise options and what to do with the cat but we lasted the 23 days.

My eldest son worked out how to exercise Zoro off lead at the basketball court. Zoro loved it, he nerly tore our arms out of our sockets walking him there on the lead.

It was lots of fun but a big relief for me is that my son no longer wants [a husky]. The cat was relieved when he went too but we always say to her she can complain when she starts paying her own way. 

Share your top tips for getting your name out there and growing your client base?

• I like to talk to other pet owners when I am out walking the dogs we look after
• Word of mouth – through petcloud customers and friends
• PetCloud letterbox drop with flyers.
• Social Media linking back to my PetCloud page so my friends and customers can share my link 

What’s one piece of advice you would give to budding Pet Sitters out there?

It’s loads of fun, just do it! You get the advantage of a pet without all the expense and you can go on holidays without have to organise a sitter. 

Love animlas? Become a sitter today and live the dream of being paid to cuddle and care for cute animals!

How to become a pet sitter?

Find local Vets, store your Pet’s Health, etc, download PetCloud today.

Download IOS: https://apple.co/2PifzXs Android: https://bit.ly/3aFeK2m

The post Holiday fun with Pets has got this family saving hundreds appeared first on PetCloud.