Bookings, deposits and client texts for a pet sitting business, with these forms ready to sign on your phone.
Pet Sitting Business: BookingBookings, deposits and client texts for a pet sitting business, with these forms ready to sign on your phone.
How to start a pet sitting business in California
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what California's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
An LLC files Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State through bizfile Online. A sole proprietor using a name other than their own files a Fictitious Business Name Statement with the county where the business is based; no formation documents go to the Secretary of State.
Source: California Secretary of State
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Not taxable
CDTFA Publication 36 says charges for boarding that do not include taxable sales of products are not subject to tax. Selling products such as food separately can be taxable. Check with CDTFA.
Source: CDTFA Publication 36
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
There is no state license, but Health and Safety Code ยง 122380 and following set care standards for any premises where four or more pets are boarded for pay, which can include a home. Local animal control enforces them, and cities and counties may add rules and require a business license.
Source: California Health and Safety Code, Chapter 11 (Pet Boarding Facilities)
4. Also worth checking
- Your city or county: a local business license, and home-business (zoning) rules if dogs stay overnight in your home.
- Insurance: ask an agent about liability coverage and bonding for pet sitters.
- Paperwork: a written service agreement, a veterinary release and a key agreement for every client.
Free forms for your first clients
Pet Sitting Contract TemplateThe agreement a client signs before the first booking: services, rates, deposit, cancellations, vet care, home access and behavior.Dog Walking Contract TemplateFor regular walks: schedule, leash and equipment, solo or group walks, bad weather, cancellations and payment.Pet Sitting Client FormEverything to collect from a new client before the first visit: contacts, feeding, medications, vet, behavior and routine.Veterinary Release Form for Pet SittersLets the sitter get a pet seen by a vet when the owner can't be reached, with a spending limit the owner sets.Key Release Form for Pet SittersHow keys and entry codes are handed over, stored, used and returned, and who pays if one is lost.Pet Sitting Meet-and-Greet ChecklistWhat to cover when meeting a new client and pet: the walk-through, health and safety, and the paperwork.Pet Sitting Invoice TemplateA one-page invoice: services by date, fees, the deposit received and the balance due.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice.