Professional industry

The professional pet sitting industry is growing rapidly because many pet owners feel that there are advantages to using pet sitters, rather than traditional pet care options. Reasons people use pet sitters include:

• Possible reduced stress on pets because pets are cared for in their own home
• No "travel trauma" to pets because they do not need to be transported anywhere
• Exposure to illnesses and parasites of other animals is minimized
• Required vaccinations are often less restrictive then those necessary at a kennel
• Pets stay on their regular routines and do not need to adapt to a new environment
• No inconveniencing neighbors, friends, or family members

Professional pet sitters are often licensed, and insured for liability including care, custody and control of the pets in their care. Many pet sitters are also bonded or insured for theft. Pet sitters usually have training, such as pet first aid certification, animal husbandry classes, or pet sitting accreditation. A number of professional organizations exist to help pet sitters improve their services.

In many areas, no special occupational license is required for pet sitters. The term licensed is often used by pet sitting professionals to refer to licenses to do business, kennel licenses, and/or animal transportation permits available within the coverage area of the business. These licenses may or may not be required, depending on the location. Licenses are not available in all areas.