If you are thinking of becoming a dog walker or pet sitter in the UK, you may be wondering if you need qualifications before you set up your business.

Currently, you do not need any dog walking or pet care qualifications to become a pet sitter. However, by studying and gaining qualifications in pet care, you are demonstrating your skills, experience, and knowledge to potential clients which promotes trust and professionalism in your business.

You become the pet sitter owners want to employ. Showing that you have the knowledge to confidently manage any difficult situation that may happen whilst their beloved pets are in your care, will make you stand out above the rest.

Having pet care qualifications shows that you care enough about your business and pets to have made that effort.

Where to find courses for pet sitting and pet care in the UK

There are many search results online offering tutorials and courses for pet sitters and dog walkers. Before subscribing to certified courses checker whether the content you are paying for is freely available elsewhere.

Understanding the legislation covering your pet sitting business is paramount but, taking the time to study areas of pet care is also important.

Gaining qualifications:

• Shows that you have experience and knowledge in handling animals
• Teaches you to know how to answer questions your clients ask.
• Shows that you understand pet care – see Blue Cross Pet Advice
• Gives you important information on animal first aid and CPR – the PDSA offers a Pet First Aid course
• Helps you to understand pet nutrition – the PDSA shares good information on any area of pet care
• Can cover animal behaviour, helping you to understand why pets act the way they do, helping you to deal with any unwanted actions – The RSPCA offers good advice.

Where to get qualifications for dog walking, pet sitting and pet care in the UK

The RSPCA has teamed up with the Dog’s Trust and Pet Industry Federation to create The Dog Walking Guide as concern grows over a growing but unregulated sector. It is worth studying!

The City & Guilds has internationally recognised qualifications in Animal Care, offering courses in Pet Sitters, Dog Walking, Animal Nutrition and Competency in Animal Health.

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This article is part of a series: 5 things to know before starting a dog walking business.

1. Local Authorities
2. UK Legislation
3. DBS Check
4. Qualifications
5. Insurance

This is not legal advice but a guide to starting your pet sitting business within UK law. It does not apply to commercial cattery or kennels, where stricter regulations applicable and a licence is required. If outside the UK, legislation may vary (including Scotland and Northern Ireland.) so always check your local regulations. A license is required for home boarding of pets and additional insurance applies.

How do I get started as a pet sitter or dog walker?

If you’d like to become a pet sitter or dog walker then you can get started really quickly, for free.  It’s a perfect side hustle which you can try out without giving up your day job.

We built Pet Sitter Dashboard to take the hassle out of running a pet business, with online bookings and less admin to worry about, leaving you more time to grow your business.  It works on all devices and the free version is all you need to get started.

We’ve also recorded a series of short YouTube videos to take you through all the steps you need to set up the app for success.

You can find out more about Pet Sitter Dashboard on our website including all the features which are included.

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