If you’ve ever dreamed of having a pet sitting business, then this one’s for you! Today we’re talking about Rover, a site that makes it possible to earn money as a pet sitter by connecting you to potential clients who need pet-sitting services.
Rover has been featured in major media outlets like The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Los Angeles Times.
While we frequently share side gigs similar to this in our weekly work-at-home email newsletters, Rover is a little different and may strongly appeal to those of you who don’t really want to do computer work and particularly love pets.
How Do You Become a Pet Sitter for Rover?
You can become a pet sitter for Rover by filling out the online application and creating a profile. Your email will be verified, and you can also download the app to your cell phone to make the process even easier.
Part of the application involves a background check. This is not free. Most sitters report paying around $35, though it may be waived occasionally during promotions. Some sitters have also shared that they were asked to repeat a background check or provide testimonials later, even after being active on the platform.
Rover gives you tools, videos, and marketing ideas for promoting your business. In addition, the company has a blog and a forum where you can ask questions of other pet sitters.
How Does Pet Sitting for Rover Work?
Once your profile is live, you can wait for client requests to come in. Rover states that many new sitters receive their first booking within a week, though this may vary.
You can pet sit in your own home, visit the client’s home, or offer other services like walks, grooming, or overnight care to increase your earnings.
Meet-and-greet sessions are strongly recommended, as many sitters find these help ensure a good fit with pets and clients before agreeing to a booking.
How Much Can You Make as a Pet Sitter for Rover?
Pay depends on your location, the type of service, and whether you work full-time or part-time. Some sitters earn over $17 per hour, while others treat it as a casual side gig.
Rover collects a 20 percent service fee from your earnings to cover platform costs, sitter benefits, and trust programs.
Payments are processed through Stripe direct deposit only. PayPal and check options are no longer available. Payments show up in your Rover account about two days after service completion, and Stripe then transfers the funds to your bank automatically. Clients’ tips may arrive separately, usually within 24 hours after they are left.
Can Other Animals Be Cared For, or Is It Just Dogs?
Yes. Rover supports care for other animals like cats, birds, reptiles, small pets, and even horses. Keep in mind that larger or exotic animals may require in-home care only.
Can Anyone Work for Rover?
Rover is available across all U.S. cities and in Canada. The platform has also expanded into some European countries through acquisitions.
Important Things to Know
The background check usually costs around $35, though sometimes it is waived.
Some long-time sitters report being asked to redo checks or add testimonials after already working on the platform.
Sitters warn against completing bookings outside of Rover, even if clients ask, because it voids the Rover Guarantee.
There have been rare but serious incidents, such as theft or pet safety concerns, so always take precautions. Use meet-and-greets, trust your instincts, and only take on pets you feel confident caring for.
How Can an Interested Individual Get Started With Rover?
Go to the Rover website and start the application process. Good luck if you decide to go for it!
Leisa Good has worked in the corporate world as well as side hustled and operated a virtual assistant business full-time since 2006.. She wrote the eBook on that one! She is also a PFYP certified career coach and the owner of the blog, Powerfully Purposed For Success. She empowers folks 50-ish to find fun, flexible, and financially rewarding work both now and into retirement. However, this time it will be work/life on their terms.