Pet Sitting Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of pet care, the need for pet sitting assistants is growing rapidly.

As our lives become busier, the demand for compassionate, responsible individuals who can provide, nurture and protect our beloved pets escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pet sitting assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the day-to-day tasks of a pet sitting assistant,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pet sitting assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pet Sitting Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Pet Sitting Assistants perform a range of tasks related to pet care, ensuring the comfort and safety of pets in their care.

They may also be required to perform some administrative tasks and assist the primary pet sitter.

Pet Sitting Assistants are primarily responsible for the direct care of pets, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Feed pets according to the given schedule and diet plan
• Provide fresh water for pets at all times
• Walk dogs and provide them with exercise
• Administer medication as instructed
• Clean and disinfect pet areas
• Monitor the pet’s behavior and health, and report any concerns
• Offer comfort and engage pets in play activities
• Assist in training pets, if required
• Ensure the safety of pets under their care
• Communicate with pet owners regarding their pet’s well-being

 

Pet Sitting Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Pet Sitting Assistant to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing care for pets while their owners are away.

This includes feeding, walking, playing, and sometimes grooming and administering medication.

The Pet Sitting Assistant should be comfortable working with a variety of pet species, from dogs and cats to birds and small mammals.

They should have experience in pet care, a love for animals, and the physical ability to manage active pets.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide basic care for a variety of pets including feeding, watering, and walking.
• Monitor pets for health issues and report any concerns to pet owners.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary environment for pets.
• Administer medication as directed by pet owners or veterinarians.
• Provide companionship and engage in play activities to keep pets entertained.
• Communicate regularly with pet owners to provide updates and reassurances.
• Adhere to any special instructions given by pet owners.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of pets under your care.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in pet care, pet sitting or a related field is preferred.
• Strong understanding of animal behavior and needs.
• Ability to handle various types of pets including dogs, cats, birds, and small mammals.
• Physical ability to walk and play with active pets.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with pet owners.
• Reliable, responsible, and able to work independently.
• First aid and CPR certification for pets is a plus.

 

Benefits

• Flexible schedule
• Opportunity to work with a variety of pet species
• Job satisfaction from working closely with animals
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pet Sitting Assistant
• Work Environment: This role involves working in clients’ homes and potentially some outdoor work during walks and playtimes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Pet Sitting Supervisor or Business Owner.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Part-time or Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pet Sitting Assistant Do?

A Pet Sitting Assistant primarily works in pet sitting services or pet care industries.

They can also be self-employed individuals offering services in their local community.

Pet Sitting Assistants provide care for pets when owners are away from home.

They ensure the pets are fed, given water, and have regular exercise.

This could involve walking dogs, playing with cats, or cleaning cages for smaller pets.

In addition to basic care, Pet Sitting Assistants are often responsible for administering medication to pets under their care, following the pet owner’s instructions.

They may also be required to monitor the pet’s behavior and health, and report any concerns to the pet owner or a veterinarian.

A significant part of their role is to provide companionship and comfort to the pets, to reduce stress and anxiety that the pets may experience in the owner’s absence.

Pet Sitting Assistants may also perform other related tasks such as cleaning up pet waste, watering plants, and collecting mail for the pet owner.

They are often trusted to have access to their client’s homes, hence, they must be reliable, trustworthy, and have a genuine love for animals.

 

Pet Sitting Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A competent Pet Sitting Assistant should have the qualifications and skills that align with the job description, such as:

• Animal handling skills to ensure the safety and comfort of a variety of pets
• Understanding of animal behavior to recognize signs of stress, illness or aggression
• Interpersonal skills to build trust with pet owners and maintain long term relationships
• Affection and patience towards animals to provide loving care and handle them when they’re anxious or fearful
• Physical stamina to handle active pets and remain on their feet for extended periods
• Communication skills to understand the pet owner’s instructions, and to provide updates about the pet’s condition and behavior
• Problem-solving skills to handle any unexpected situations or emergencies that may arise
• Time management skills to ensure pets are fed, walked, and cared for according to a set schedule
• Basic knowledge of pet health to recognize when a pet needs medical attention

 

Pet Sitting Assistant Experience Requirements

Pet Sitting Assistants often gain their experience through volunteer work at local animal shelters, pet boarding facilities, or veterinary clinics where they gain hands-on experience caring for animals.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through part-time roles or internships in pet care.

They may also gain experience by offering pet sitting services to friends, families, and neighbors.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have honed their skills in various aspects of pet care such as feeding, grooming, and administering medication.

They may also have developed expertise in handling different types of pets like dogs, cats, birds, or exotic animals.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have a solid understanding of animal behavior and health, and may have some experience in managing or supervising other pet sitters.

They could also be skilled in special services like pet training or rehabilitation, and may be ready for a managerial position in a pet care facility.

 

Pet Sitting Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Pet Sitting Assistants typically do not require any formal education; however, a high school diploma or equivalent may be beneficial.

Training is usually provided on-the-job, with Pet Sitting Assistants learning about animal behavior, feeding routines, and emergency procedures.

Although not required, some Pet Sitting Assistants may choose to complete a certification program in animal care or a related field, which can provide more in-depth knowledge about animal health and behavior, as well as enhance their professional credentials.

Strong knowledge about different breeds of pets and their specific needs is also beneficial for Pet Sitting Assistants.

Experience with pets, whether personal or professional, is highly valued and can increase an individual’s employability in this role.

First-aid and CPR certification for pets is also recommended, as Pet Sitting Assistants may need to handle emergencies.

Moreover, any additional courses or certifications related to animal behavior, training or care can give a Pet Sitting Assistant an edge over others in the field.

They should also be passionate about animals, have excellent communication skills for interacting with pet owners, and possess the physical stamina to handle active pets.

 

Pet Sitting Assistant Salary Expectations

A Pet Sitting Assistant can expect to earn an average wage of $12.75 (USD) per hour.

However, actual earnings can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific requirements of the pet owner.

 

Pet Sitting Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pet Sitting Assistant need?

A Pet Sitting Assistant should possess excellent interpersonal skills to communicate with pet owners and understand their pet’s needs.

They should also have a genuine love for animals and the patience to deal with pets of varying temperaments.

Knowledge about pet care, pet behavior, and basic pet first-aid can be very beneficial.

 

Do Pet Sitting Assistants need any specific qualifications?

While a specific degree isn’t necessary, some form of training or certification in pet care can be advantageous.

Experience with pets, either through volunteering at animal shelters or personal pet ownership, is usually a requirement.

Pet Sitting Assistants need to be physically fit as the job often requires walking dogs and lifting heavy supplies.

 

What should you look for in a Pet Sitting Assistant resume?

A Pet Sitting Assistant resume should demonstrate a history of reliable and responsible pet care.

This can include previous pet sitting jobs, volunteer work at animal shelters, or even detailed care for personal pets.

Also, look for any certificates in pet care or animal behavior.

References from previous pet owners or animal care professionals can also provide valuable insight into the candidate’s suitability for the role.

 

What qualities make a good Pet Sitting Assistant?

A good Pet Sitting Assistant shows a genuine love for animals and exhibits patience and empathy towards pets.

They should be trustworthy, as they often have access to clients’ homes.

They need to be observant and detail-oriented to notice any changes in a pet’s behavior or health.

Good physical stamina is also important as the job can be physically demanding.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Pet Sitting Assistant?

Hiring a Pet Sitting Assistant can be challenging as it requires finding someone who is not only passionate about animals but also reliable, responsible, and possesses the necessary skills to care for pets.

It can be beneficial to reach out to animal welfare organizations or use online pet sitter networks during your hiring process.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it really means to be a pet sitting assistant.

Surprised?

It’s not just about feeding and walking.

It’s about shaping the quality of a pet’s life, one pet sit at a time.

With our go-to pet sitting assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But don’t stop here.

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for crafting spot-on listings or perfecting your resume.

Keep in mind:

Each pet sit is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s shape that future. Together.