Have you ever thought about make extra income with pets?
If you love animals, chances are you’ve thought about it before. And if you haven’t, it’s time to know that YES — it’s a great opportunity!
We’re going to show you everything you can do in this booming market that keeps growing every day!
Caring for animals goes way beyond love and affection. The pet industry in the U.S. generates over $140 billion a year and continues to grow, offering plenty of opportunities for those who love pets and want to turn that passion into income.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to earn extra income with pets, even if you’re just starting out, and how to turn your passion for animals into a steady source of income, or even a full-on business.
Why invest in the pet market to make extra income?
- High demand: Brazil is the 3rd largest pet market in the world.
- Low entry barrier: Many services require more dedication than income to get started.
- Emotional connection: Customers tend to stay loyal when they see genuine care for their pets.
Now let’s get to the main point: the 7 most doable ideas to start making extra income with pets:
1. Pet sitter (Animal Babysitter)
Perfect for those who have some free time and enjoy taking care of animals — especially on weekends.
What is it?
It’s an in-home pet care service for when owners are traveling or busy with other commitments.
How to start:
- Promote your services on social media and apps like Rover or Wag.
- Offer home visits, walks, feeding, and companionship.
Earning potential:
Between $20 and $50 per visit, depending on your location, the length of the visit, and the pet’s specific needs.
2. Dog walker
For many, this has already become a steady gig, it’s simple, accessible, and in high demand, especially in larger cities.
What is it?
Taking dogs for walks, helping them burn off energy, and giving them a chance to socialize.
How to start:
Invest in a quality leash and some basic training.
Sign up for apps or social media platforms like Instagram (@PetBooking), or create your own local Instagram profile.
Earning potential:
Between $15 and $40 per walk. With 5 regular clients per day, you could earn $2,000+ per month.
3. Selling handmade pet products
Natural treats, clothes, bows, and toys are trending.
There are even many digital courses that teach quickly and practically about this market. See an example of a course that we evaluated for you:
Course: Caring with love – 30 Healthy and Natural Recipes for your pet
Click here to see more about this course!
What is it?
Homemade, personalized items for dogs and cats, there are plenty of recipes and tutorials on YouTube that you can learn from and sell.
How to start:
- Create a simple brand on Instagram.
- Sell on platforms like Etsy, eBay, or at local fairs and pet shops/veterinary clinics.
- Make sure to use pet-safe materials, and always research their quality to ensure they’re safe for the animals.
Earning potential:
Profit margins of 40% to 70%. A pack of 10 treats can be sold for $5 to $12.
4. Pet boarding at home
With some space in your home and lots of love, you can offer a place for pets to stay while their owners are away.
What is it?
A cozy, affordable alternative to pet hotels.
How to start:
- Prepare a clean, safe space for the pets.
- Sign up on platforms like Rover or Wag.
- Offer added perks: daily video updates, walks included, toys, but be cautious when hosting more than one pet — they might not get along or could even mate. Plus, more than one pet will require extra time and attention.
Earning potential:
Between $10 and $25 per night. With 5 bookings per week, you could earn $2,000+ per month.
5. Pet photography sessions
A highly valued niche, especially for events or individual photo shoots.
What is it?
Professional photo sessions for pets.
How to start:
- Learn basic photography (you can start with a good smartphone camera).
- Create a portfolio on Instagram.
- Offer themed photo sessions.
Earning potential:
Between $25 and $100 per session. With 4 sessions per week, you can make a solid income.
6. Creating and selling pet content
Perfect for those who enjoy writing, making videos, or teaching courses.
What is it?
Creating content on blogs, YouTube, courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable, or social media about tips, care, training, nutrition, and more.
How to start:
- Choose a platform (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or a blog).
- Post regularly and use effective hashtags.
- Monetize through AdSense, partnerships, and affiliate marketing.
Earning potential:
In the long term, you can earn anywhere from $100 to $1,000+ per month, depending on your audience and engagement.
7. Affiliate program for Pet Products
Earn commissions by promoting products that pet owners already buy.
What is it?
Recommending products like pet food, toys, treats, and earning a commission on sales.
How to start:
Sign up for affiliate programs such as:
- Amazon Associates
- ShareASale
- Chewy Affiliate Program
- Promote products on social media or your content channel.
Earning potential:
From 4% to 10% per sale. With good traffic and volume, you can scale quickly.
Check out a REAL example we found about make extra income with pets:
Sarah Johnson, 26, from Austin, Texas, started as a pet sitter on Rover. In less than a year, she had regular clients and began offering boarding and walks.
Today, with a full schedule and constant referrals, she earns over $800 per month taking care of pets at home or walking them daily.
Sarah’s tips for starting to make extra income with pets:
- Start with what you have (time, phone, space, or skills).
- Invest in trust: real photos, testimonials, and genuine care are your unique selling points.
- Understand your audience: dogs have different needs than cats.
- Create a name and visual identity to stand out.
Frequently Asked questions about making extra income with pets
Not for services like pet sitting or dog walking, but courses on first aid and animal behavior can be very helpful.
Dog walking and pet sitting are the most accessible and quick services to start earning income.
It depends on the volume. As a sole proprietor (like an LLC or small business), you can easily formalize and pay less in taxes.
No. There are many ways to work in the pet industry without owning a pet, such as reselling products, photography, and pet sitting.
Services like dog walking and pet sitting require little to no investment, just time and dedication.
Yes! Services like grooming, making homemade treats, and even pet boarding at home are great options for working from home with pets.
Conclusion on making extra income with pets:
If you love animals and want to make extra income, or even live off it, the pet market is one of the best options today.
With dedication and creativity, it’s possible to start small and build a steady and enjoyable income stream.
Liked it? Share it with that friend who’s always surrounded by pets but hasn’t realized the potential yet!
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