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 Texas
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what Texas's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
LLCs form with the Texas Secretary of State and file any assumed name certificate there. A sole proprietor using an assumed name files an assumed name certificate with the county clerk in each county where they keep a business office or do business.
Source: Texas Secretary of State: Name Filings FAQs
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Depends on the service
The Texas Comptroller lists dog grooming as a taxable service. Its taxable-services publication does not list boarding or pet sitting. Check with the Comptroller before charging for add-ons like baths.
Source: Texas Comptroller: Taxable Services (96-259)
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
We found no statewide license for pet sitting or boarding in Texas. TDLR licenses dog and cat breeders (5 or more intact breeding females), not sitters. Your city or county may require a business license or limit how many animals you keep.
Source: TDLR: How to Apply for a Cat or Dog Breeder License
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.