Pet sitter: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Pet sitter
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Pet sitter mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Pet sitter?
A pet sitter is responsible for taking care of animals while the owners are away, which can include tasks such as feeding, grooming, walking and sometimes even training them. It requires good knowledge about different types of animals and their needs and may often require you to stay at the owner's house to continuously monitor pets' health and well-being.
Skills
- Animal handling and care
- Knowledge of different animal species and their needs
- Ability to administer medication and provide basic first aid
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Time management and organizational skills
- Ability to handle and resolve conflicts or emergencies
- Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions
- Physical fitness and ability to handle animals of various sizes and temperaments
- Knowledge of animal behavior and ability to recognize signs of distress or illness
- Ability to work independently and responsibly
Qualifications & Education
- Entry possible without formal academic qualifications
- Some employers may ask for GCSEs/S grades
- Vocational qualifications available:
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, dog sitters are in demand in the UK due to the increasing number of pet owners and the rising spending on animal welfare.
To start a dog sitting business in the UK, you should first decide on the type of pets you will be caring for. Then, develop a business plan and choose a name for your business. Register your business and create a website to promote your services. It is also important to set your prices and secure pet sitting insurance for protection.
There are no specific qualifications required to be a dog walker in the UK. However, having qualifications in areas such as animal first aid, animal behaviour, or animal care can enhance your professional standing.
You don't need formal qualifications to become a pet sitter in the UK. However, having experience in looking after animals is beneficial and can reassure potential clients. It is also important to have a clean criminal record, and background checks may be required.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Pet sitter mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now