Animal and Home Sitter
Independent Contractor
Job Description

The Independent Contractor (IC)/Sitter is responsible for following the Client Contract and adhering to all client instructions for caring for animals and maintaining the home. Key responsibilities include preparing meals for animals as instructed, monitoring and reporting behavioral changes or concerns to clients, and engaging animals in activities that promote mental and physical stimulation.

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A successful IC/Sitter should have a strong understanding of animal behavior and be skilled in providing care for various types of animals and home environments. Ultimately, an exceptional IC/Sitter will demonstrate excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and outstanding customer service to ensure both animals and their owners receive the highest level of care.

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IC/Sitter Responsibilities:

1. Meet with Clients to gather detailed pet care information, discuss sitting duties, and review the Client Contract. Engage with potential clients to secure business, advertise services provided and explain the details of how sitting works.

2. Follow Client instructions as provided in the Client Contract and any additional notes left by clients.

3. Provide animal care by ensuring pets receive food, fresh water, and any necessary medication/supplements exactly as directed which may be very detailed and must be followed exactly as given.

4. Give attention and affection to pets as they are comfortable (per Client Contract).

5. Clean & maintain habitats by cleaning litter boxes, cages, aquariums, and replacing bedding as needed.

6. Respect client homes by maintaining the standards of the home as they were left by the Client. Maintaining cleanliness, security, and organization. Clean up pet-related messes and return keys to designated locations.

7. Doing a check of the home and outdoor area for any issues, damage, etc. that may hinder sitting services. Making Client/MSAHS aware of these.

8. Use client property only as explicitly permitted.

9. Exercise and supervise animals by walking as needed, monitoring behavior around others, and Being present ensuring safety indoors and outdoors while noting bathroom habits.

10. Provide Updates through calls, emails, photos, and videos to clients and MSAHS.

11. Respond to emergencies by promptly notifying the client and MSAHS of any animal illnesses, injuries, issues with the home, or urgent situations. Take animals to the veterinarian if necessary.

12. Be punctual & stay for the scheduled time to ensure reliability and proper animal care.

13. Perform additional services such as collecting mail, watering plants, and adjusting blinds/curtains upon client request.

14. Follow scheduling procedures by adhering to the provided schedule and notifying the manager of conflicts at least 72 hours in advance of service. 

15. Maintain a professional relationship with MSAHS management and participate in monthly check-ins and continued trainings.

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Job Skills and Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED

• At least 18 years old

• At least one year of animal and home sitting experience

• Ability to care for various animals and homes of different sizes and breeds

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication and customer service skills

• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and dependable phone service

• Passion for animals, with the ability to be gentle yet assertive when necessary

• Patient, reliable, professional, and trustworthy

• Ability to work flexible schedules, including varying hours

• Willingness to pass a criminal background check if requested

• Ability to follow detailed instructions precisely

Preferred:​

• Availability for overnight hours, weekends, and holidays

• Working knowledge of animal behavior

• Experience in animal training or veterinary care

• Ability to perform animal CPR and first aid​​

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Compensation and Benefits

• Base Commission:

  • 70% commission for total service earnings at or below $300 per service period

  • 60% commission for total service earnings above $300 per service period

• Certifications Bonus: Additional $10 for each certification obtained during the agreement period

• Meet & Greet Bonus: $10 for each new client Meet and Greet

• Referral Bonus: $30 credit for each new client referred by the Independent Contractor

• Tips: 100% of client tips go directly to the IC/Sitter

• Expense Responsibility: IC/Sitter covers all travel and related expenses but can write off mileage and other expenses on taxes

• Flexible Schedule: Part-time work with the potential for weekends and holidays off

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Important Note:
Mid Shore Animal and Home Sitting, LLC is under no obligation to pay the IC/Sitter for any services until Mid Shore Animal and Home Sitting, LLC has received payment for those services. The IC/Sitter expressly acknowledges and accepts the risk that if Mid Shore Animal and Home Sitting, LLC is not paid for any reason, the IC/Sitter will not be compensated for the work performed.