Seniors may find pet-sitting business appealing

Dear Paw’s Corner: My husband and I read about pet-sitting in our local senior’s paper. We are are going through some hard times. We need to find some part-time work and would like something we can do together. We both love animals and have done house-sitting and cared for relatives’ animals in the past. We think that pet-sitting would be perfect, as we can take dogs for walks or whatever is needed. But we don’t know where to start! Can you give us any advice?

Dear Seniors: Absolutely — pet-sitting can be a great business to get into, and it is a fast-growing industry.

Your first step should be to contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. This organization provides education, certification and networking opportunities for people like you who want to start a pet-sitting business. You can call it at 856-439-0324 to request more information.

I’d also recommend taking one or two business courses designed for entrepreneurs. Many local governments or business organizations offer courses for little to no cost. Check your newspaper, local library or city/county Web site for listings.

And of course, get the word out that you are pet-sitting. Tell family and friends that you are now sitting for a fee, and encourage them to spread the word to everyone they know.

Finally, if you are hosting pets in your home, be sure to create a comfortable, healthy environment for “guest” pets as well as yourselves. Good luck!