I am a dog sitter, and it's probably my favorite job I've had thus far. While this is really a side job while I'm in school, I take it just as seriously as a "real job". Pet sitting is more than just chilling out and feeding the dogs when they need to be fed. You have to build connections with the owners and the pets, themselves, to establish trust.

For my case, in particular, I care for three dogs and a cat. They all eat different foods and some need medications twice a day. Most of what I do when I'm watching these guys is curl up on the couch and hang out with them, but I also make sure they get outside and play so that they don't get super wound up before I leave the house or go to bed.

Each dog is different, and you have to take the time to learn their temperament. Some dogs are slow to warm up to you, and some will love you as soon as you cross the threshold into their house. Sometimes, winning over a dog's trust means showing them that you are the "food person." Once they realize this, they'll be all over you. If you respect any animal's boundaries, the trust they have for you builds.

For most pet owners, hiring a pet sitter when they go out of town is WAY cheaper than boarding their dogs at a kennel or vet. This also allows the owners to know that their pets are getting individualized care from a person they trust. In my case, the pet owners are long-time family friends. They have known me since I was a baby, and they know that they can trust me with the care of their animals.

There are ways to gain the trust of pet owners. Being a dog owner yourself and having previously met the dogs you will be caring for are big trust builders. Allowing the owners to see how you interact with their pets and how they react to you show them that their pets trust you. One thing I like to do is periodically send pictures of the pets to the owners to show that they are okay and having a good time. Another thing that I did before I started regularly pet sitting was get registered as a dog walker through Wag! They test your dog knowledge and run background checks to allow pet owners to know that you are a safe person to allow into their home.

If you are thinking about dog sitting, I highly recommend it. It's an easy way to make some extra money and a way to satisfy your puppy fever without getting your own pet. Not only that, but you will build life-long friendships with the owners and their pets.