How to Write a Contract for Pet Sitting Services

Learn how to write a quick and easy petsitting contract for a small petsitting business.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Access to Internet
• Printer

1. It's generally a good idea to contact the client prior to drafting a contract and getting some quick information such as:
   -How Many Pets
   -Size and Breed of Pets
   -Temperament
   -Special Needs if any (such as medication, etc)

2. Once you have an idea of what the client needs, you can do a quick google search to find a sample of what pet sitting contracts include. One example is listed here:
   http://petsitters.sittercity.com/article/sample_contract.html

3. Tweak your contract so that it includes an area for "special instructions" and set up a meeting with the client to go over the contract. Ask that they bring their pets along so that you can familiarize yourself with the pet that you will be caring for.

4. Go over the contract with the client and include any special instructions if they are requested. Specify the extra costs associated with this and once all terms are agreed upon, have both you and the client sign and date the contract. Be sure to make a copy of the contract for the client.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you protect yourself by covering details such as what to do in case of emergency
• Include in discussions with the client whether or not vaccinations are up to date and request to see the veterinarian records for the pet.
• Make sure you outline in the contract what you should do in case of emergency and whether or not the client will pay for extra fees associated with potential emergency fees, should you need to take the pet to a veterinarian.
• This article is provided for informational purposes only, to further protect yourself and/or your pet care business, make sure a lawyer reviews any contracts drafted.