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 Michigan
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what Michigan's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
LLCs file with LARA's Corporations Division. Sole proprietors file assumed names with the county clerk in each county where they do business.
Source: Michigan LARA: Choosing a Business Name
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Not confirmed: ask the state
We could not find a Michigan Department of Treasury statement on pet sitting or boarding. Check with Treasury before you start.
Source: Michigan Department of Treasury: Sales and Use Taxes
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
Michigan's Dog Law of 1919 counts any place keeping 3 or more dogs for boarding for pay as a kennel. Its kennel license comes from the county treasurer ($10 for up to 10 dogs), and a new kennel first needs an inspection certificate from the Department of Agriculture. Some counties and cities with their own animal control officers license kennels instead, so ask your county treasurer which applies.
Source: MCL 287.270 (Dog Law of 1919)
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.