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How to Find Your First Pet-Sitting Clients

  • Writer: Gardinou
    Gardinou
  • Aug 13
  • 3 min read

Do you love animals and want to start working as a pet sitter? One question usually comes up quickly:


How do I find my first clients?


When you're just starting out, you may not have many referrals or testimonials yet. That's completely normal. A few simple strategies can help you get noticed and gradually build your client base.


1. Define your services


Start by deciding which services you want to offer:


  • dog or cat sitting;

  • dog walking;

  • home visits;

  • daytime care;

  • overnight care;

  • boarding in your home.


You don't have to offer everything. Choose services that match your experience, availability and environment.


2. Create a profile that builds trust


Your profile is often your first introduction to a pet owner.

Clearly explain:


  • who you are;

  • your experience with animals;

  • the services you offer;

  • the pets you care for;

  • your local area;

  • your rates;

  • your availability.


Use a clear, natural photo and take the time to write a thoughtful introduction. A complete profile helps owners understand who they may be trusting with their pet.


Gardinou also allows pet sitters to complete identity verification through an independent service provider, which can help strengthen trust with pet owners. Identity verification is required to activate a pet-sitter profile on the platform.


3. Let people know you're available


Your first clients may be closer than you think.


Tell people around you about your new activity:


  • family;

  • friends;

  • neighbours;

  • coworkers;

  • members of your local community.


Word of mouth can be especially valuable when you're starting out. Personal recommendations can help you get your first bookings and gradually build your reputation.


4. Use social media


Social media can also help you introduce your services.

Share your profile, explain what services you offer and let people know when you're available. You can also share useful pet-care tips to demonstrate your interest and knowledge.


You don't need to post constantly. The goal is simply to make people in your community aware that you're available.


5. Make every first booking count

Your first booking can be the beginning of a long-term relationship.


Be punctual, follow the owner's instructions, communicate clearly and pay attention to the pet's individual habits.


A positive experience can lead to recommendations and help you gradually build your reputation.


6. Create your Gardinou profile


A specialized platform can also help you showcase your services to pet owners looking for a sitter.


With Gardinou, you can create your profile, describe your experience, choose your services, and set your availability and rates.


Creating your profile is free. The Gardien Plan provides access to the features available to pet sitters and booking requests. Gardinou also operates with no commission: payments are made directly between the pet owner and the pet sitter.


Gardinou Tip


Don't focus only on getting your first booking. Focus on creating your first trusted relationship.


Attentive care and clear communication can help turn a first booking into a recommendation or another future request.


Ready to get started?


Create your free pet-sitter profile and showcase your services to pet owners in your area.


Key Takeaways


  • Clearly define the services you want to offer.

  • Create a complete, trustworthy profile.

  • Make your activity known locally.

  • Use social media strategically.

  • Make every booking count as you build your reputation.

  • A specialized platform can help you reach pet owners in your area.


Ready to start your pet-sitting activity? Create your free Gardinou profile today.

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