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 Colorado
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what Colorado's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
An LLC is formed by filing with the Colorado Secretary of State. A sole proprietor not using their legal first and last name must file a Statement of Trade Name with the Secretary of State.
Source: Colorado Secretary of State
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Not taxable
The Department of Revenue says Colorado's state sales tax doesn't apply to services unless a law taxes them, and we found none for pet care. Home-rule cities can tax differently, so check with your city.
Source: Colorado Department of Revenue
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
The Colorado Department of Agriculture licenses places that board pets under the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA). Individuals boarding no more than three pet animals at one time are exempt, so boarding more than three in your home needs a PACFA license.
Source: Colorado Legislative Council Staff, PACFA issue brief
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.