Free Pet Sitting Contract Template

A pet sitting contract is a written agreement between a pet owner and a pet sitter. It explains what care will be provided, when it will happen, where it will take place, and how the sitter will be paid.

It also helps both sides stay aligned if something goes wrong, like a missed visit, an unexpected vet bill, or property damage.

Even if you trust each other, putting the details in writing helps prevent misunderstandings. A clear agreement can also protect both sides if a dispute comes up later.

• Clear responsibilities: It spells out feeding, walks, meds, updates, and any special rules.
• Payment protection: It documents rates, due dates, deposits, late fees, and refunds.
• Emergency planning: It explains what to do if a pet gets sick or injured, including vet preferences and spending limits.
• Liability clarity: It can explain what’s covered, what isn’t, and whether the sitter carries liability insurance coverage.
• Tax-friendly records: Many pet sitters earn income as self-employed workers, including sole proprietors or independent contractors, so a signed agreement helps support your records. See the IRS self-employed tax center for general guidance.

If you’re providing pet sitting as a business service, you may also want an independent contractor agreement to set expectations with repeat clients, or a free invoice template to document payments.

A strong pet sitting contract is specific. It should be easy to read, and it should cover the basics plus the “what if” situations.

1. List the Pet Owner and Pet Sitter

Include each person’s full name, phone number, email, and address. If the sitter is a business, add the business name.

2. Identify the Pet(s)

List each pet’s name and type, plus any details that affect care, such as:

• Breed, size, and age.
• Medical conditions, allergies, and medications.
• Behavior notes, including triggers, escape risks, or bite history.

3. Confirm the Service Location and Access Details

State where services will happen (owner’s home, sitter’s home, or another location). If the sitter needs home access, include a safe plan for keys, codes, alarm instructions, and entry restrictions.

4. Describe the Services and Schedule

Be clear about what the sitter will do and how often. For example:

• Feeding times and portions.
• Walk length and frequency.
• Litter box cleaning, grooming, or playtime.
• Photo updates or check-in messages.

5. Set Emergency and Vet Instructions

Include the preferred vet’s name and contact details, plus what the sitter should do in urgent situations. Many owners also set an approval rule, like calling first unless delay would risk harm.

6. Decide Who Pays for Food, Supplies, and Vet Costs

Explain whether the owner will provide supplies upfront or reimburse the sitter. If you want the sitter to pay first and get reimbursed, write down the reimbursement timeline and proof needed.

7. Add Payment Terms

State the rate, total expected cost, and when payment is due. Also include any deposit requirements, cancellation terms, and late fees.

If you want a formal payment schedule (especially for longer bookings), consider using a loan agreement for structured repayment terms.

8. Clarify Liability and Damage Rules

Use plain language to describe who is responsible for what. For example, you can address:

• Damage caused by the pet.
• Responsibility for injury to the pet or the pet sitter
• Property access issues, like a lockout.
• Limits on what the sitter can authorize without approval.

Some sitters also use a separate release of liability for higher-risk services (like off-leash hikes or transporting a pet), depending on the situation.

9. Choose Governing Law and Sign

Pick the state whose laws apply if there’s a dispute. Then, both parties should sign and date the agreement. Keep copies in a place you can easily access.