FAQ Working with Sparky Steps
🐾 FAQ: Partnering with Sparky Steps
Curious about what it's like to be a Certified Pet Sitter in the Sparky Steps network? We've got answers to help you decide if it's the right fit for you.
🤝 Your Sparky Steps Partnership
What makes Sparky Steps different? We're not a gig app or an employer. We are a mission-driven, community-first company that partners with professional, independent pet sitters. You run your own business, and we act as your ally, providing a supportive network, client referrals, and resources to help you grow.
What are the professional requirements to join? To be a Sparky Steps Certified Partner, you must maintain a professional business foundation. This includes:
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A legally registered business entity (LLC or Sole Proprietorship).
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Active pet care liability insurance.
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Active pet CPR & first aid certification.
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Active professional pet sitting certification from an accredited body like NAPPS.
If you don't have all of these, don't worry! We offer an optional consulting and sponsorship program to help you get certified and set up your business properly.
💸 Earnings & How It Works
How does compensation work? You will earn 80% of the total client fee for every service provided through our platform. Sparky Steps retains the remaining 20% to cover platform access, marketing, client acquisition, and administrative costs. Payments are made weekly via direct deposit.
Do I have to find my own clients? Nope! We handle marketing, advertising, and client screening. Your job is to provide exceptional care, and we'll provide you with referrals when a client is a good match for you. Although, its always encouraged to do your own marketing efforts, why not?
What kind of services will I be performing? Your services will include the essentials of professional pet care, such as dog walks, cat visits, feeding, medication administration, and client communication. We believe in high-quality, reliable care for every pet.
🛡️ Your Protection & Insurance
Am I covered by Sparky Steps' insurance? Yes, Sparky Steps maintains a comprehensive pet care liability insurance policy that covers you for certain claims that occur while you're performing services for one of our clients.
Do I need my own insurance as well? Yes. To maintain your status as a certified partner, you are required to have your own professional pet care liability insurance. This is a key part of having a solid business foundation and gives you and your clients additional peace of mind.
Does your policy cover me if I get injured? No. Our policy does not cover injuries to yourself. As an independent business owner, you are strongly encouraged to carry your own Occupational Accident Insurance for your protection.
🗓️ Community & Mutual Support
How do I get time off? Our Optional Self-Coverage Time Off System is built on mutual support. You can opt-in to take time off and still earn 50% of your pay for those days if you arrange for another partner who also opted-in in the network to cover your walks. The covering partner earns the other 50%. It's a win-win system that ensures both you and the client are supported.
What kind of support will I have? You'll have access to a real human manager (no bots!), a growing network of friendly pet professionals, and resources to help you grow your career. We are building a team culture, not just a company.
📣 Ready to Join? If you're a professional pet sitter, we want to hear from you. Please contact us and we’ll be in touch soon to schedule an interview.
Disclaimer: The information in this FAQ is for informational purposes only and is subject to change. It is a summary of the full Independent Contractor Agreements, which will be provided upon formal application. Please refer to those documents for complete terms, conditions, and legal obligations.
