Dog Walkers & Cat Sitters Wanted (80% Pay + Backup Support)
Sparky Steps is looking for reliable, professional partners to join our pet care network in Albany Park, Ravenswood, and Uptown. If you love working with animals and want a high-paying, flexible partnership where the "office work" is handled for you, let’s talk.
The Perks:
- Industry-Leading Pay: You keep 80% of the client fee.
- $21.60 per 30-minute walk.
- $17.60 per 15-minute walk.
- The Safety Net: Need a day off or have an emergency? Our 40/40 split ensures a backup partner covers your route so you don't lose the client, and you still earn for the coordination. (Terms and Conditions Apply)
- No Admin Stress: We handle the marketing, billing, and professional software.
- Freedom: You set your own availability and choose your visit volume.
What We’re Looking For:
- Experienced: You are amazing with pets and people!
- Reliability: You are punctual and treat every pet like family.
- Communication: You write clear, heartwarming updates for pet parents and work well with others.
- Insured: You have (or are willing to get) your own Pet Care Liability Insurance and list Sparky Steps as "Additionally Insured."
Requirements:
- Professional experience with dogs/cats.
- Must pass a background check.
- Smartphone and tech-savvy.
- Comfortable walking in all Chicago weather.
- Must have your own Pet Care Liability Insurance
Ready to Join the Pack?
We are looking for long-term partners who want to grow with a local, heart-centered brand.
To apply, please contact us today! Include your resume, your neighborhood, and a quick note about your pet care experience.
Pay: $16.60 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
Application Question(s):
- Do you carry professional Pet Care Liability Insurance?
(Note: If you answer "no" to any of the above, are you willing to set these up before accepting client referrals? We can provide guidance.)
- Our highest client demand is Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Within that window, what is your preferred "Service Volume"?
Low Volume: 5–10 walks per week (Ideal for supplementary income).
Mid Volume: 15–25 walks per week (Building a consistent local route).
High Volume: 30+ walks per week (Dedicated professional capacity).
- We need help Monday-Friday, hours vary but usually we need help in between the hours of 9AM-5PM M-F.
What is your availability?
- We are currently optimizing routes in Albany Park, Ravenswood, and Uptown. Do you live in or near these neighborhoods, or do you have a reliable way to commute to these specific areas daily?
- Tell us about a time a pet care visit didn't go as planned (an emergency, a lock issue, or a difficult animal). How did you handle the situation and the communication with the owner?
- Our network relies on the 40/40 Safety Net (Primary/Backup split). Are you comfortable with a collaborative environment where you might occasionally provide backup for a fellow partner, or have them provide backup for you?
- What's your experience with Animals like?
- Why do you want to work with us?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Experience:
- Dog Walking: 1 year (Required)
Language:
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Chicago, IL 60625 (Required)
Work Location: In person