When Helen Simpson retired this year, she sought an easy way to supplement her income.

Turning her dog-walking hobby into a money-making venture, she aimed to bridge her income gap before claiming her pension.

Simpson, 57, who has a defined benefit pension from her 30 years with the NHS, gets a guaranteed income but only after turning 60. She also qualifies for the full state pension of £11,500 at age 67.

Until then, Simpson and her girlfriend, Saint Ananda, 54, began using the Rover app in 2022 to offer dog-sitting services. Rover connects dog owners with verified pet sitters.

The couple enjoys spending time with dogs but didn’t want the long-term commitment of pet ownership. This compromise has been lucrative: Simpson earned £1,500 in her first year and is on track for £6,700 this year. “I’m good with dogs, they like me,” she said. “I like it because it’s a caring job, looking after an animal.”

Charging £35 for an overnight stay (£38 during peak times), Simpson sets her own prices, though Rover suggests rates based on local averages. The app takes a 15% commission per booking.

While business is steady — with bookings up to five nights a week — not all dogs behave perfectly. “One dog bit both of us and urinated on our laptop, costing £80 to fix,” Simpson noted. “Another dog urinated on an Axminster rug, encouraging other dogs to do the same. We’ve also had dogs use the spare room as a toilet.”

Simpson advises investing in quality garden fencing to prevent escapes. “Keep an eye on small dogs; they can find a way through small gaps,” she warned.

Dog walking can be a profitable endeavor. According to the National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers, an hour-long dog walk costs between £15 and £20 in London, £9 to £14 in the Midlands, and £8 to £13 in Yorkshire and the Humber.

Other apps like Pawshake and GoWalkies can also be used for dog walking and sitting services.

Before starting, confirm if a licence is required by checking with your local council. Licence fees vary: Lambeth charges £65.26 annually for walking up to two dogs, Bromley charges £200 for walking four or more dogs, Manchester’s boarding licence costs £195, and Birmingham’s costs £323 annually.

It’s important to have insurance to cover potential issues. Public liability insurance protects against injuries or property damage caused by dogs in your care. It also covers injuries to the dogs, if they get lost, or if they die. Public liability insurance with £2 million cover averages £54 annually, according to NimbleFins.

Income from dog walking may be taxable depending on earnings. Everyone has a £1,000 trading allowance annually, meaning £1,000 in gross income (before expenses) is tax-free.

Beyond this, declare income through self-assessment and pay tax at your standard rate. The personal allowance is £12,570, enabling earnings up to £13,570 tax-free if there is no other income.

How to Choose a Dog Walker

Ensure the dog walker or sitter you hire is experienced and trustworthy.

Seek recommendations from friends and family. If using an app, review the walker’s ratings.

Arrange a meet and greet, ask about their dog-handling experience, and request to see their insurance and any necessary licences.

Bring your dog to meet the potential sitter or walker. If they don’t get along, find another option. Ensure the walker is aware of any medications or allergies your dog has and provide vet details.