This planning page is a practical starting point, not personalised legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm current requirements with the relevant official body or qualified adviser.
Pet Sitting & Dog Walking
Care for pets while owners are away or busy
Startup Cost
£500-2000
Recommended Structure
Sole Trader
Insurance Notes
Pet liability insurance essential (£100-300/year). Covers accidents and injuries.
Best For
Animal lovers, reliable, good with customers
Revenue Potential
£15,000-£40,000 annually (£10-20 per walk, £20-50 per sit)
Practical launch checklist
- Get pet first aid training
- Set up booking system (Rover, Care.com, or custom)
- Create service menu and pricing
- Get pet liability insurance (essential)
- Build client contracts with liability waivers
- Set up payment system
- Create emergency procedures
- Get DBS check (optional but recommended)
Before you spend money
Use the estimates and examples on this site as planning prompts. Your costs, permissions, earnings and timetable will depend on your skills, location, suppliers, customers and business structure. Keep a simple record of assumptions, test them with prospective customers, and update the plan as you obtain quotes and approvals.