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How to Create a Service Contract for Your Pet Sitting Business
Starting a pet sitting business is an exciting journey filled with wagging tails and loyal clients—but before you leash up for success, there’s one critical step you must not skip: creating a service contract.
Whether you’re caring for a chihuahua in Chicago or a golden retriever in Gurgaon, a pet sitting service contract protects both you and your clients by clearly outlining expectations, responsibilities, and legal terms.
This blog will guide you through what to include in your contract, how to write one, and why it’s essential—especially in the increasingly competitive pet care industry in both the U.S. and India.
Why a Pet Sitting Contract Is Essential
A service contract isn't just paperwork—it's peace of mind.
It protects your business:
- Outlines what’s included (and what isn’t)
- Reduces the risk of disputes
- Clarifies payments and cancellation policies
- Helps you stay legally compliant
It reassures clients:
- Shows professionalism
- Gives them confidence in your reliability
- Sets clear expectations for pet care
What to Include in a Pet Sitting Service Contract
Here’s a breakdown of the essential sections your contract should include:
1. Client and Pet Information
Start by collecting:
- Client’s full name, address, phone, and email
- Pet’s name, breed, age, medical conditions
- Vet contact info and preferred emergency clinic
Tip: Include a space for multiple pets and any behavioral notes (e.g., "does not like strangers").
2. Scope of Services
Clearly list what you will provide:
- Pet feeding
- Walks (length and frequency)
- Litter box or potty cleaning
- Administering medication
- Overnight stays or boarding
- Daily updates via text/photos
You can even include checkboxes for custom services like grooming or training.
3. Service Dates and Times
Specify:
- Start and end dates
- Visit frequency (e.g., twice a day, overnight)
- Exact times if applicable
Pro Tip: Be realistic with your time commitments—clients appreciate consistency more than flexibility.
4. Rates and Payment Terms
Outline your rates:
- Hourly, per visit, or package pricing
- Charges for multiple pets
- Extra services (grooming, holidays, last-minute booking fees)
Also include:
- Accepted payment methods (UPI, cash, PayPal, etc.)
- Payment deadlines (before or after the service)
- Late payment fees
5. Cancellations and Refunds
Prevent last-minute chaos by defining:
- Cancellation notice period (e.g., 24–48 hours)
- Refund eligibility
- Rescheduling policy
- No-show or early return terms
Example Clause:
“Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled service will incur a 50% charge.”
6. Pet Owner Responsibilities
Clarify what the client must provide:
- Sufficient food, medications, supplies
- Leashes, collars, litter, etc.
- Access to the home (keys, codes)
- Emergency contact info
Also, specify that pets should be up to date on vaccinations and free of parasites.
7. Liability and Emergencies
Protect yourself with a legal disclaimer:
“The sitter is not liable for injuries, illness, or death of the pet(s) during the agreed service period unless due to proven negligence.”
Include your procedure for emergencies:
- Contact owner first
- Contact vet or emergency clinic
- Permission to seek treatment on client’s behalf
8. Veterinary Release Authorization
Let the client authorize you to act in an emergency:
Sample Text:
“I authorize [Pet Sitter Name] to seek veterinary care for my pet(s) in the event of illness or injury during my absence. I agree to reimburse any medical expenses incurred.”
9. House Access and Security
Explain how you'll enter and secure the home:
- Where will the key be left or returned
- Are you allowed to lock doors, turn off lights, etc.
Also, define if you're allowed to use any CCTV or if the owner will be monitoring the property remotely.
10. Photo or Social Media Permissions
Some pet parents are happy to see their pet featured in your marketing—but others may want privacy.
Include a simple checkbox:
- I give permission for photos/videos of my pet to be used on social media
- I do not give permission
11. Legal Jurisdiction and Signatures
End with:
- A clause stating which region’s law applies (e.g., U.S. state law or Indian state law)
- Date and signatures of both parties
How to Create Your Contract (Step-by-Step)
You can create your own pet sitting contract using a simple Word document or Google Docs. Here's how:
Step 1: Choose a Template
Use free templates from:
- Rocket Lawyer
- LawDepot
-
HelloBonsai
You can also ask me to generate one based on your services!
Step 2: Customize for Your Business
Include your business name, logo, and preferred terminology (e.g., "Guardian" instead of "Owner").
Step 3: Make It Easy to Sign
Use tools like:
- DocuSign
- Adobe Acrobat
- Google Forms (for a lightweight version)
- WhatsApp signature image exchange (popular in India)
Step 4: Keep a Digital and Physical Copy
Always email a copy to your client and keep a signed version for your records.
Example Clauses You Can Copy
Cancellation Clause:
“Client agrees to provide at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations. Failure to do so will result in a fee equal to 50% of the service charge.”
Veterinary Release:
“In the event of a medical emergency, I authorize [Pet Sitter] to obtain treatment from my pet’s designated veterinarian or the nearest available clinic. I agree to reimburse all related expenses.”
Liability Waiver:
“Client understands that pets may act unpredictably and agrees not to hold the sitter liable for damages or losses unless due to negligence.”
Tips for Indian Pet Sitters
- Always use written agreements—verbal deals don’t hold up in disputes.
- Add clauses for monsoon/weather delays, especially in Mumbai or Chennai.
- Use WhatsApp or SMS for easy communication and digital acknowledgment of terms.
- In gated communities, mention security clearance and visitor rules.
Conclusion: Contracts Show You Care
Creating a professional pet sitting service contract isn’t about being overly formal—it’s about transparency, trust, and protecting everyone involved.
When clients see you’ve taken the time to outline expectations clearly, they’ll feel more secure leaving their beloved pets in your care.
A good contract is more than a document—it’s the foundation of your reputation and your business.
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