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 Wisconsin
Pet sitting and dog walking need no degree or state exam, but a few registrations come up in every state. Here is what Wisconsin's own agencies say, checked October 7, 2026. Rules change, so follow each link before you file.
1. Register the business
LLCs file with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). A sole proprietor can register a tradename with DFI, but registration is not required.
Source: Wisconsin DFI: Trademarks FAQ
2. Sales tax on pet sitting
Depends on the service
Wisconsin taxes pet boarding and grooming. Pet sitting that is only sitting, walking or training is not taxable when the owner supplies all the food, dishes and other supplies. If you board pets at your place and supply the food, that is taxable boarding.
Source: Wisconsin DOR: Sales and Use Tax Report 2-15
3. Licenses for boarding and pet care
Wisconsin's DATCP licenses dog breeders and sellers who sell 25 or more dogs a year. It says no license or inspection is required for dog groomers, boarding kennels or anyone else outside that program. Your city or county may still require a kennel or business license.
Source: Wisconsin DATCP: Dog Breeders & Sellers
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.