+ Profile + Job

Pet Sitting Pay Rates (Updated 21 Dec 2025)

Average hourly rates for pet sitting per country (in local currency)
Country Avg Rate/Hour
USA $15.54
Canada $16.91
United Kingdom £10.54
Australia $24.95
New Zealand $20.29

Rates are calculated weekly from our live member data. If you republish our rates please credit kidsit.com 😊


Top 10 Tips For Hiring A Pet Sitter

Follow these handy tips for hiring a pet sitter to ensure your furry family members are safe, happy, and cared for while you’re away.

1. Check Experience

Ask how long they’ve been pet sitting and what types of pets they’ve cared for. Experience with your specific type or breed is a big plus.

2. Verify Credentials

Look for pet CPR/first aid certification, pet care training, or memberships in professional pet-sitting associations.

3. Ask for References

Speak with past clients to confirm reliability, trustworthiness, and quality of care.

4. Meet in Person

Schedule a meet-and-greet to see how your pet reacts to the sitter and ensure a comfortable connection.

5. Discuss Duties Clearly

Define whether they’ll walk, feed, administer medication, groom, or provide other services. Be specific about expectations.

6. Check Availability

Ensure the sitter can meet your schedule, including holidays, weekends, or overnight needs.

7. Understand Rates & Payment

Clarify fees, overtime charges, and any additional costs (like travel, supplies, or emergency care).

8. Review Emergency Plans

Ask how they handle medical issues, accidents, or other emergencies, including access to your vet.

9. Communication Style

Confirm how often and in what form they’ll provide updates—texts, photos, or reports.

10. Start with a Trial

Consider a short test visit or day before leaving for an extended period to see how your pet responds and assess the sitter’s reliability.

Pet Sitter Interview Questions

Here’s a comprehensive list of interview questions to ask a pet sitter candidate to ensure your pets are safe, happy, and well cared for.

Experience & Background

  • How long have you been a pet sitter?
  • What types of pets have you cared for (dogs, cats, exotics, etc.)?
  • Have you ever cared for pets with special needs, medical conditions, or behavioral issues?
  • How many pets do you usually care for at one time?

Daily Care & Duties

  • What tasks are you comfortable performing (feeding, walking, administering medication, grooming)?
  • How do you structure a typical day for pets in your care?
  • Are you comfortable giving multiple pets individual attention if needed?
  • How do you handle exercise and playtime for high-energy pets?

Health & Safety

  • Are you certified in pet CPR or first aid?
  • How would you handle a medical emergency or injury?
  • How do you prevent accidents during walks, playtime, or interactions with other pets?
  • Are you comfortable administering medications or special treatments?

Communication

  • How do you usually update owners while pet sitting (texts, photos, videos)?
  • How do you handle special requests or instructions from owners?
  • Are you available for immediate contact in case of emergencies?

Rates & Policies

  • What is your standard rate, and do you charge extra for holidays or overnight stays?
  • Do you have a cancellation or refund policy?
  • Are there additional fees for administering medication, multiple pets, or travel?
  • Do you offer trial visits before committing to long-term or recurring care?

Personality & Fit

  • What do you enjoy most about pet sitting?
  • How do you handle pets that are shy, anxious, or aggressive?
  • Why do you think you would be a good fit for my pet(s) and our household?