Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Pet Sitting Education and Certification
Since 1994, we have been the leading educational organization dedicated to professional pet sitters and dog walkers. Our mission is to elevate the pet-sitting industry through comprehensive education, certification programs, and resources that empower entrepreneurs to build successful businesses. With over 40,000 individuals trained and more than 4,000 members across the U.S., Canada, and internationally, we provide unparalleled access to group-rate insurance, business tools, and a supportive community. Our Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) exam sets the industry standard for knowledge-based certification, ensuring professionals meet rigorous quality benchmarks.Through online courses, annual conferences, and exclusive member benefits, we equip pet-care entrepreneurs with the skills and credibility needed to thrive in a competitive market. Our commitment to education extends to pet owners, offering resources to connect with qualified professionals via our Pet Sitter Locator. As creators of Take Your Dog To Work Day and other industry initiatives, we continue to shape the future of pet care while maintaining a focus on ethical practices, continuous learning, and client satisfaction.
Services
Certified Professional Pet Sitter Exam
Online Pet Care Courses
Group-Rate Insurance Access
Business Development Tools
Pet Sitter Locator Service
Industry Networking Events
Pet First Aid Training
Disaster Preparedness Certification
Staff Training Programs
Animal-Specific Care Courses
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer the industry's only knowledge-assessed certification exam for pet sitters.
- Our members gain access to exclusive group-rate insurance and bonding services.
- We provide comprehensive online courses covering pet first aid, disaster preparedness, and more.
- Our community includes 4,000+ professionals across the U.S., Canada, and internationally.
- We created Take Your Dog To Work Day, a globally recognized pet-friendly initiative.
Services
Certified Professional Pet Sitter Exam
The CPPS exam is the pet-care industry's only knowledge-assessed certification for professional pet sitters. Candidates demonstrate expertise in animal care, business practices, and emergency protocols. This credential enhances professional credibility and helps pet sitters stand out in competitive markets.
Online Pet Care Courses
We offer comprehensive online courses covering pet first aid, disaster preparedness, cat- and dog-sitting fundamentals, and staff training. These programs equip professionals with essential skills to provide high-quality care and grow their businesses.
Group-Rate Insurance Access
Members receive exclusive access to group-rate liability insurance tailored for pet-care businesses. This coverage protects against industry-specific risks and is available at discounted rates through our preferred providers in the U.S. and Canada.
Pet Sitter Locator Service
Our online locator helps pet owners find qualified professionals in their area. The tool features PSI members who meet our educational standards, providing a trusted resource for connecting pet owners with certified pet sitters.
Industry Networking Events
We host annual conferences and virtual summits that bring together pet-care professionals for skill development, idea exchange, and business growth. These events feature expert-led sessions on industry trends, best practices, and innovative service offerings.
People
Patti J. Moran
Founder & CEO
Patti J. Moran founded Pet Sitters International in 1994 and pioneered the Certified Professional Pet Sitter exam. With decades of experience in pet care and entrepreneurship, she has shaped industry standards through educational initiatives and advocacy efforts.
Questions
What is Pet Sitters International?
PSI is the leading educational association for professional pet sitters, offering certification, training, and resources since 1994.
How can I become certified as a pet sitter?
Take our Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) exam to demonstrate your expertise and earn industry-recognized credentials.
Does PSI offer insurance for pet sitters?
Yes, U.S. and Canadian members receive access to group-rate liability insurance through our preferred providers.
How do I find a local pet sitter?
Use our free Pet Sitter Locator tool to search for qualified professionals in your area by ZIP or postal code.
What educational resources are available?
We provide online courses, webinars, monthly toolkits, and a learning library covering pet care, business management, and safety protocols.
What events does PSI organize?
We host annual conferences, virtual summits, and the Take Your Dog To Work Day initiative to promote pet-friendly workplaces.
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