What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dog Walker & Pet Sitter – Madison, WI position at Paw Pals?
Paw Pals is Hiring: Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Madison, WI
Paw Pals is looking for a dependable, animal-loving team member to join our pet care crew. This is a mobile, independent role. You’ll drive between clients’ homes throughout your shift, providing care for pets in their own environment — dog walks, cat visits, and general pet sitting. No two days are exactly the same, and you’ll often be working on your own, so reliability and good judgment matter.
WHAT THE JOB LOOKS LIKE
- Traveling to clients’ homes to walk dogs, provide cat visits including feeding, litter, and companionship, and care for other pets as needed
- Following detailed care instructions — feeding schedules, medications, routines
- Administering medications when needed — including pilling cats, which can require patience and a gentle but confident approach
- Sending visit updates with notes and photos through our app after every visit
- Working in all weather conditions, year-round — rain, snow, heat included
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
- 18 or older with a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle with insurance
- Comfortable handling pets of all sizes and temperaments
- Able to work independently and manage your time between visits
- Strong communicator — with clients, pets, and our team
- Smartphone required for scheduling and visit reports
- Must pass a background check and commit to the role for at least 6 months
AVAILABILITY
We are primarily looking to fill afternoon and weekend shifts. Our priority shifts are roughly 12–6pm or 1–7pm on weekdays, and AM or PM shifts on weekends. Shifts are typically 4 to 6 hours, though they can be shorter or longer depending on your availability and client demand. Additional availability such as mornings is a bonus but not required.
When hired, we agree on your regular days and times. You can remove days you’re not available ahead of the schedule or add extra days when you’re free. For some team members it helps to set a recurring structure — for example Monday, Wednesday, and Friday — but this can flex depending on your schedule and client demand.
We ask that candidates are available for at least 3 shifts per week on a regular basis. This role offers a lot of flexibility, but we do ask for some in return — clients rely on consistency, and showing up regularly helps you build relationships with the pets and families you care for.
COMPENSATION & PERKS
- $16/hour to start
- Tips earned after training and shadow shift are completed — 100% go directly to you, typically adding $2–$4 per hour
- Pay increases based on performance and tenure
- Time outdoors and an active workday
- Liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
HOW TO APPLY
Complete the prescreen questions and send us a message telling us a little about yourself and why you’d be a great fit for the team. We look forward to hearing from you!
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Referral program
Application Question(s):
- This role requires walking for extended periods — typically 20 to 30 minutes at a time — while managing one or two dogs on leash, in all weather conditions. This is a physical, active job. Are you able to meet these requirements?
- Tell us about your experience with animals — professional or personal. What types of pets have you cared for, how long, and in what capacity? Have you ever administered medications to a pet, such as pills or eye drops?
- This position requires team members to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and have a reliable vehicle with valid insurance. Can you confirm you meet all three of these requirements?
- We are currently looking for coverage on weekday afternoons (roughly 12–6pm or 1–7pm) and weekend shifts (AM or PM). What days and times would you be able to commit to on a regular basis?
- Which area of Madison are you able to work in? We are currently hiring for both the East and West sides. Shifts are based in one area of town, though your shift location may vary depending on availability and client demand.
Work Location: On the road
Salary : $2 - $4