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 Maryland
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what Maryland's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
LLCs register with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) through Maryland Business Express. A sole proprietor can register a trade name with SDAT there, and must register with SDAT to open a business bank account.
Source: Maryland Business Express: Business FAQs
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Not taxable
The Comptroller of Maryland says pet services, including boarding, sitting, walking and grooming, are generally not subject to sales and use tax. Sales of pet products are taxable.
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
Maryland's statewide kennel license rule is aimed at dog breeders, and kennel licensing is handled by counties, which may set stricter rules. Some counties' kennel licenses cover boarding facilities. Check with your county about kennel and business licenses.
Source: Maryland Department of Legislative Services: Fiscal and Policy Note, HB 334 (2017)
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.