Dog Walking Partnerships Chicago | Earn 80% & Stay Independent
🐾 Join the Sparky Steps Network
Now Partnering with Certified Pet Sitters in Chicago
Since 2016, Sparky Steps has proudly served Chicago pets with heart and professionalism. As we grow, we’re building a network of trusted, independent Certified Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers who want to help serve our local community.
🧩 How It Works
Sparky Steps partners with experienced pet professionals who value both independence and a safety net. As an Independent Contractor in our network, you will:
Keep 80% of the Service Fee
We believe the people doing the work deserve the lion's share of the reward. Earn a massive 80% split for every walk you complete solo.
The "Reliability Buffer"
Need a day off or have an emergency? Our unique 40/40 split system ensures a qualified partner covers your route so you don't lose the client—and you still earn for managing the relationship. (Terms & Conditions Apply)
Set Your Own Schedule
Maintain your complete independence. Set your own availability while benefiting from Sparky Steps' high-volume routing and marketing engine.
Professional Tools
Get full access to the DoTimely platform for seamless GPS tracking, scheduling, invoicing, and professional client transparency.
🏆 Who We Are Looking For
We don't partner with just anyone. Because our clients entrust us with their family members, we only collaborate with elite pet professionals who treat pet care as a true career. We expect the best.
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Canine Psychology & Behavior
You understand what makes dogs tick. You can easily read canine body language, recognize calming signals, and identify trigger stacking before a situation escalates.
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Positive Reinforcement Training
You utilize force-free handling and R+ (Positive Reinforcement) techniques. You know how to redirect behavior and set dogs up for success on the pavement.
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Urban Situational Awareness
Chicago streets are chaotic. We look for hyper-vigilant walkers who anticipate hazards—from off-leash dogs to dropped food—keeping pets safe in any environment.
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Education & Certification
You are Pet First Aid/CPR certified, possess formal pet sitting certifications (like PSI or NAPPS), or have proven veterinary/training background experience.
Our Network in Action
Transparent Pay & The "Safety Net" Split
We know life happens. To ensure our pets never miss a walk and our partners never burn out, we utilize a collaborative pay structure for backups.
The 80% pool is always preserved for the partners.
| Scenario | You Earn | Backup Partner | Sparky Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo Success | 80% | $0 | 20% |
| With Backup |
40% for relationship management |
40% for physical labor |
20% |
By building a strategic route in our focus neighborhoods, partners realistically complete 2–3 visits per hour.
🛡️ Prepared & Protected
To maintain the 80% payout tier and protect the brand, all partners must provide:
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Independent Contractor Agreement
A signed ICA outlining our 80/20 and 40/40 split protocols.
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Non-Solicitation Agreement
Ensuring we grow together as a network rather than competing for the same clients.
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Completed W-9
Required for seamless, compliant 1099-NEC tax reporting.
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Pet Care Liability Insurance
Your professional "fence" that protects you, the clients, and the pets.
💬 A Message from Our Founder
“At Sparky Steps, we believe pet care can be both heart-centered and professionally run. Walkers deserve autonomy and fair opportunities. Clients deserve trust and peace of mind. And pets deserve the best care every time. That’s what our network is all about.”
— Michael Jaurigue, Founder of Sparky Steps
⚖️ Terms & Conditions for Applicants
- Sparky Steps does not employ Certified Pet Sitters. All individuals in our network operate as independent contractors (1099) under their own business entities. You are free to maintain your own separate business, brand, and clients outside of the Sparky Steps network.
- Sparky Steps may, at its sole discretion, refer clients to independent professionals who meet our standards, and independent professionals may also refer clients to others in the network.
- Client referrals are not guaranteed, nor is Sparky Steps liable for the income, scheduling, or business performance of any contractor.
- Contractors are solely responsible for their taxes, insurance, legal compliance, and client relationships.
🚀 Ready to Apply?
If you're a certified pet sitter (or on your way to becoming one), we want to hear from you. Include your resume, service area, and a brief note about your pet care experience and certification status.
