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 Indiana
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what Indiana's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
LLCs form through the Indiana Secretary of State on INBiz, and an LLC using a different name files its assumed name there too. A sole proprietor using a name other than their own files an assumed business name with the County Recorder in each county where they do business.
Source: IN.gov FAQ: How do I file an Assumed Business Name (DBA)?
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Not confirmed: ask the state
We could not find an Indiana Department of Revenue statement on pet sitting or boarding. Check with the Department of Revenue before you start charging clients.
Source: Indiana Department of Revenue: Sales Tax
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
The Indiana Board of Animal Health says it does not license kennel operations unless dog breeding is involved. Since July 1, 2024, pet stores, animal care facilities and commercial breeders must register with the Board. Check with your city or county about local rules and a general business license.
Source: Indiana Board of Animal Health: Frequently Asked Questions
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.