The Badge Archive

General Safety Reminder: Always meet in a public place and during daylight hours when working for someone new. Let your parent or guardian know where you’ll be, who you’re meeting, and what time you expect to return. Never share personal information beyond your first name and a contact method like a phone number or email. Avoid giving out your home address, school name, or other identifying details.

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Pet sitting is one of the easiest ways for teens to earn money, especially during weekends, school breaks, and holiday travel seasons. The trick is finding clients! Families love hiring someone local to care for their pets while they’re away, and with the right approach, you can turn this into a flexible, well-paying gig.

Pet sitting can grow quickly. Once people trust you, word spreads fast. Think of each job as a chance to build a portfolio, earn real money, and become the go-to pet sitter in your community.

Steps to Get Started:

1. Know what pet sitting actually involves
   • You’re taking care of pets while their owners are away — usually in the owner’s home.
   • Tasks include:
     • Feeding, watering, and cleaning up after pets
     • Walking dogs (if requested)
     • Playing and socializing with animals
     • Sending updates to the owner (photos, texts)
   • Some jobs are just a few hours; others involve overnight stays.
2. Get adult permission and build trust
   • If you’re under 18, let your parent or guardian know you want to start pet sitting.
   • Ask if they’ll help you meet clients, transport you when needed, or provide a reference.
   • Pet owners are trusting you with beloved animals — showing responsibility early makes a huge difference.
3. Build your skill and confidence
   • Offer to pet sit for:
     • Family members or neighbors for free or a reduced rate
     • Teachers or school staff who have pets
     • Friends who have cats, dogs, or small animals
   • Keep a list of animals you’ve cared for and what you did (this becomes your starter resume).
4. Make a flyer or post offering your service
   • Include:
     • Your name, age, and grade level
     • Services offered (pet feeding, playtime, overnight stays, litter box cleanup, etc.)
     • Availability (weekends, school breaks, holidays)
     • Rates: Starting at $25/day for pet sitting; special pricing for multi-day stays
     • Contact info (email address or parent’s phone number)
   • Post it:
     • On library bulletin boards
     • At vet offices (ask first)
     • In neighborhoods (mailboxes or door hangers with permission)
     • Through trusted adults in your community
5. Set your rate and explain what’s included
   • Suggested starting rate: $25 per full day
   • Can charge $8–$12 for a short daytime visit
   • Offer package pricing for multi-day stays
   • Clearly state what tasks are included and how often you’ll visit
6. Stay safe and professional
   • Always meet with a pet owner and their animal before accepting a job
   • Bring a printed checklist with responsibilities and emergency contacts
   • Never accept keys or overnight jobs without parent involvement
   • Keep a calendar to track dates, addresses, and instructions
7. Ask for reviews or referrals
   • After completing a successful job, ask politely if the owner would recommend you to others or write a short review you can quote on your flyer.

Sample Flyer

Reliable Pet Sitting Services – Affordable & Local

Need someone to care for your pets while you’re away? I’m a responsible high school student offering trusted pet sitting for families in the area. Whether you’re traveling, working long hours, or need a weekend helper, I provide safe and friendly care for your pets in their own home.

Services Offered:

• Daily check-ins or extended stays
• Feeding, refilling water, and cleaning litter boxes or cages
• Dog playtime, cuddles, and walks (if requested)
• Updates via text or email during care

Rates:

• $25 per full day (morning + evening check-ins)
• $8–$15 per daytime visit (30–60 minutes)
• Custom pricing available for multi-day stays or multiple pets

Availability:

• Afternoons, weekends, school breaks, and holidays
• Flexible scheduling based on your needs

About Me:

• Responsible and experienced with dogs, cats, and small pets
• Reliable communication and careful attention to pet routines
• Parent-approved and happy to provide references

Contact: [Your Name]
[Email Address or Phone Number]
[Optional: Parent’s Contact Info if under 18]

Please reach out to schedule a free meet-and-greet or ask questions!

Sample Rates

Rates by Experience Level

Experience Level	Short Visit (15–30 min)	Standard Visit (45–60 min)	Full Day (2 visits/day)	Overnight Stay
Teen Starter (0–3 jobs)	$8–$12	$12–$15	$25–$35	Only with parent involvement; $35–$50
Teen Experienced (6+ jobs or 1+ year)	$12–$15	$15–$20	$30–$45	$45–$60
Professional Sitter / Adult Services	$15–$25	$25–$35	$40–$60+	$60–$100+

Notes for Teens:

• Offer flexible pricing for multiple pets or extended stays.
• Start low while building trust and reviews — but be fair to yourself.
• Always clarify what’s included: walks, playtime, feeding, cleanup, updates.
• Let families know you’re open to trial visits or custom quotes if they’re unsure.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

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