Your Trader Street profile is your digital storefront – the first impression potential clients have of you as a dog walker or pet sitter. A mediocre profile gets ignored. A great profile converts browsers into bookings and turns casual inquiries into regular clients. This comprehensive guide provides proven templates, real examples, and expert strategies to create a profile that stands out and consistently attracts the clients you want.
Why Your Profile Matters More Than You Think
The harsh reality:
- Pet owners browse 5-10 profiles before contacting anyone
- 80% of decision happens before they message you
- Your profile competes with dozens of other local sitters
- First impression determines if they’ll read further
What a great profile achieves:
- 3-5x more inquiries than average profiles
- Higher-quality clients (less haggling, better communication)
- Premium rates (confident profiles justify higher prices)
- Regular bookings (professional image builds trust)
- Strong reviews (attracts clients who value quality)
The investment:
- 2-3 hours to create exceptional profile
- Returns hundreds or thousands in bookings
- One-time effort, ongoing benefits
The 8 Essential Elements of a Winning Profile
Element 1: Professional Profile Photo
What works:
✅ You with a dog or cat – Shows you actually like animals
✅ Outdoor setting – Suggests active dog walking
✅ Genuine smile – Warmth and approachability
✅ Clear face visibility – Builds trust and recognition
✅ Good lighting – Natural daylight preferred
✅ Recent photo (within 2 years) – Accurate representation
What doesn’t work:
❌ Selfie from car (looks unprofessional)
❌ Group photo where you’re hard to identify
❌ Sunglasses covering face (suspicious)
❌ Photo from 10 years ago (misleading)
❌ Poor quality/blurry image
❌ No animals in photo (why would pet owners trust you?)
Example scenarios:
Good: You kneeling in park, arm around Golden Retriever, both looking at camera, big smile, sunny day
Better: You mid-walk with two dogs on leads, autumn leaves background, relaxed and happy
Best: Professional-looking photo of you sitting on grass with three dogs around you, all looking content, clear blue sky
How to get this shot:
- Ask friend to take 20-30 photos
- Borrow friend’s/family’s pet if you don’t have one
- Park or outdoor setting
- Morning or late afternoon for best light
- Dress casually but neatly (you’re going for “trustworthy neighbour” not “job interview”)
Element 2: Compelling Headline/Title
Your headline appears in search results. It needs to grab attention immediately.
Weak headlines:
- “Dog Walker”
- “Pet Sitter Available”
- “Love Animals”
Strong headlines:
- “Experienced Dog Walker for Large Breeds | Leeds City Centre”
- “Reliable Pet Sitter | 5+ Years Experience | Available Weekends”
- “Professional Dog Walking Services | Specialising in Nervous/Reactive Dogs”
Formula that works: [Your specialty] + [Your location] + [Your availability/experience]
Examples by niche:
For large breed specialists: “Strong, Confident Dog Walker for Large Breeds | German Shepherds, Rottweilers Welcome | Manchester”
For cat sitters: “Experienced Cat Sitter | Medication Administration | Daily/Twice-Daily Visits | Birmingham”
For overnight sitting: “Reliable Overnight Pet Sitting | Your Home | Available Weekends & Holidays | Bristol”
For dog walkers with breed experience: “Professional Dog Walker | 10+ Years with Spaniels & Retrievers | One-on-One Walks | Leeds”
For puppy care: “Patient Puppy Care & Training Support | Multiple Daily Visits | House Training Help | Edinburgh”
Why these work:
- Specific (not generic)
- Addresses client pain points
- Shows expertise
- Includes location for local search
- Signals availability
Element 3: About Me Section (The Bio)
This is where you tell your story and build connection.
Structure that converts:
- Opening hook (1-2 sentences that grab attention)
- Your experience (2-3 sentences establishing credibility)
- Your approach/philosophy (1-2 sentences showing you care)
- What you offer (3-4 bullet points listing services)
- Call to action (1 sentence encouraging contact)
Template 1: The Experienced Professional
“I’ve been a professional dog walker in [location] for [X] years, and honestly, it’s the best job in the world. There’s nothing better than seeing the excitement on a dog’s face when I arrive for their walk!
I started pet sitting when I realised my 9-5 office job meant I rarely saw daylight or got exercise. Now I walk 10-15 dogs per week, and I’m fitter, happier, and get to spend my days with amazing animals and their wonderful owners.
I specialise in [large breeds / nervous dogs / puppies / senior pets] and pride myself on reliability – I’ve never missed a single scheduled walk in [X] years. Rain, snow, or sunshine, I’m there.
What I offer: • 30 or 60-minute solo/group walks • Flexible morning (7-9am) or evening (5-8pm) slots • GPS-tracked walks with photo updates • Basic training reinforcement during walks • Weekend and holiday availability
Message me to discuss your dog’s needs – I’d love to meet you both!”
Template 2: The Caring Beginner
“As a lifelong animal lover who’s finally found a way to turn my passion into a side hustle, I offer reliable, affordable pet care in [location].
While I’m new to professional pet sitting, I’m not new to animals. I grew up with dogs and cats, currently have two rescue dogs of my own, and regularly care for friends’ and family’s pets. I’m DBS-checked, fully insured, and take pet care seriously.
I understand that trusting someone with your pet is a big deal – they’re family, not just animals. That’s why I offer a free meet-and-greet so we can all get comfortable before any booking.
What I offer: • Dog walking (30-60 minutes) • Home visits for feeding and playtime • Medication administration (pills, drops) • Overnight pet sitting (weekends) • Daily photo updates
I’m building my client base and offering introductory rates for new clients. Let’s chat about how I can help!”
Template 3: The Specialist
“Nervous, reactive, or strong dogs need experienced handlers who understand canine behavior – that’s where I come in.
With 8 years’ experience and certification in [canine behaviour/dog training], I specialise in dogs that other walkers won’t take. I’ve successfully worked with German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, and reactive rescues, using positive reinforcement and calm, confident handling.
If your dog pulls on the lead, reacts to other dogs, or has anxiety issues, I have the skills and patience to give them the exercise they need in a safe, controlled way. I always walk reactive dogs solo (never in groups) and avoid busy times/locations.
What I offer: • One-on-one walks only (no group walks) • Specialised handling for large/reactive dogs • Quiet route planning away from triggers • Progress updates and behaviour notes • Flexible scheduling around your dog’s needs
Get in touch for a free behavior assessment and meet-and-greet.”
Key principles:
✅ Be authentic – Write like you talk, not like a corporate brochure
✅ Show personality – Let your genuine love for animals shine through
✅ Address concerns – Acknowledge that trust is earned
✅ Be specific – “10 years experience” beats “lots of experience”
✅ Include location naturally – Helps with local search SEO
✅ End with clear call-to-action – Tell them what to do next
❌ Don’t write an essay – 150-250 words is ideal
❌ Don’t be generic – “I love animals” says nothing
❌ Don’t focus only on yourself – Make it about helping them
❌ Don’t exaggerate – Honesty builds trust
Element 4: Services List (Clear and Detailed)
List exactly what you offer with specific details.
Format:
Dog Walking
- 30-minute walks: £12
- 60-minute walks: £20
- Solo walks (one-on-one): £15
- Group walks (2-3 compatible dogs): £10 per dog
- Available: Monday-Friday 7-9am and 5-8pm
Home Visits (Dogs/Cats)
- 30-minute visit: £15
- 60-minute visit: £25
- Includes: Feeding, fresh water, playtime, litter box cleaning, medication
- Available: Flexible scheduling throughout day
Overnight Pet Sitting (Your Home)
- Standard overnight (6pm-9am): £50
- Extended 24-hour care: £60
- Includes: All regular care plus home security, mail collection
- Available: Weekends and school holidays
Additional Services
- Medication administration (pills/drops): Included
- Injections: +£10 per visit
- Second pet: +£5-8
- Travel outside 2-mile radius: +£5
What makes this work:
- Specific prices (builds trust, filters budget-shoppers)
- Clear timeframes (manages expectations)
- Exact inclusions (no surprises)
- Add-on costs transparent (no hidden fees)
- Availability stated (saves back-and-forth)
Element 5: Experience and Credentials
What to include:
✅ Years of experience – “Professional pet sitter since 2020”
✅ Number of clients – “Currently caring for 15 regular clients”
✅ Certifications (if any) – “Pet First Aid certified”
✅ Insurance – “Fully insured with £1M public liability”
✅ DBS check (if you have it) – “Enhanced DBS checked”
✅ Specific breed experience – “Experienced with Spaniels, Terriers, Retrievers”
✅ Special skills – “Comfortable administering medication including injections”
Example section:
“My Experience & Qualifications: • Professional pet sitter since 2019 (5+ years) • 20+ regular clients across Leeds • Pet First Aid certified (2023) • Fully insured (public liability £1M) • Enhanced DBS checked • Experienced with large breeds, puppies, and senior dogs • Comfortable administering oral medication and insulin injections”
If you’re brand new:
“My Background: • Lifelong animal lover with personal pet ownership experience • Regularly pet-sat for friends and family for 5+ years • Currently own two rescue dogs (Labrador and Collie mix) • DBS checked and insured • Offering introductory rates while building client base”
Honesty builds trust: Never exaggerate. “Learning and building experience” is more trustworthy than claiming expertise you don’t have.
Element 6: Availability Calendar
Be specific about:
- Days available (Mon-Fri vs weekends)
- Times available (morning/evening/all day)
- Holiday availability
- How far ahead to book
Example:
“My Availability: • Monday-Friday: 7-9am and 5-8pm • Saturdays: Flexible throughout day • Sundays: Overnight sitting only • School Holidays: Available for intensive care • Booking notice: Prefer 1 week ahead for regular walks, 2-3 weeks for holidays”
Update regularly: Nothing worse than “fully booked until March” in July. Keep this current.
Element 7: Photos and Videos
What to include:
4-6 high-quality photos showing:
- You with different dogs (shows experience with various breeds)
- Action shot on a walk (demonstrates what clients get)
- Happy dog close-up (proves animals like you)
- You in different locations (shows you explore varied routes)
- Cozy home setting if you offer overnight (shows pet’s environment)
Optional but powerful:
- Short video (15-30 seconds) of you walking dogs
- Video of happy dog greeting you (shows bond)
- Before/after grooming if you offer that
Photo tips:
- Natural lighting only (no flash)
- Clean, uncluttered backgrounds
- Always get owner permission before posting pet photos
- Include variety (small dogs, large dogs, cats if relevant)
- Show action and calm moments
What NOT to post:
❌ Photos with other people (confusing)
❌ Blurry or dark images
❌ Same dog in every photo
❌ Interior shots that look messy
❌ Screenshots or memes
Element 8: Reviews and Testimonials
How to get them:
After every successful booking: “Hi [Client], I really enjoyed caring for [Pet]. If you were happy with the service, I’d be incredibly grateful if you could leave a short review on my Trader Street profile – it helps me grow my business so much. Thank you!”
Make it easy:
- Include direct link to review page
- Send reminder 24 hours after they return
- Don’t be pushy but do ask
First 5 reviews are critical:
- Offer small discount for clients who leave reviews
- “Book 5 walks, get £5 off if you leave a review”
- Focus intensely on getting those first reviews
Respond to all reviews:
- Thank positive reviews promptly
- Address negative reviews professionally
- Shows you care about feedback
Example responses:
To positive review: “Thank you so much, Sarah! Max is an absolute joy to walk – his enthusiasm is contagious! Looking forward to our next walk. 🐕”
To constructive review: “Thanks for the feedback, John. I apologise for the miscommunication about timing. I’ve updated my processes to prevent this happening again. I really appreciate you giving me the chance to improve.”
Profile Optimization: Standing Out from Competition
Use Keywords Naturally
What clients search for:
- “dog walkers near me [location]”
- “pet sitters near me [location]”
- “dog walking services near me”
- “overnight pet sitting [location]”
- “trusted dog walker in [town/city]”
- “dog walker for [specific breed]”
Where to include them:
- Headline/title (most important)
- First paragraph of bio
- Services section
- Throughout naturally (don’t keyword-stuff)
Example optimised opening: “Professional dog walker in Leeds city centre offering reliable dog walking services for working professionals. Specialising in lunchtime walks and one-on-one dog walking for large breeds including German Shepherds, Labradors, and Rottweilers.”
This naturally includes:
- “dog walker” (2x)
- “dog walking services”
- “Leeds” (location)
- “one-on-one dog walking”
- “large breeds”
- Specific breeds
Highlight What Makes You Different
Survey insights show clients look for:
- Over 50% prefer one-on-one walks vs group walks
- Breed-specific experience matters
- Reliability and communication are top priorities
- Insurance and DBS checks increase trust
Differentiation strategies:
If you offer solo walks: “I exclusively offer one-on-one dog walking – your dog gets my complete attention for the entire walk. No groups, no distractions, just quality exercise and bonding time.”
If you have breed expertise: “With 8 years of experience specifically with working breeds (Border Collies, German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois), I understand their exercise and mental stimulation needs better than generalist walkers.”
If you’re super reliable: “In 4 years of professional pet sitting, I’ve never missed a scheduled visit – not once. Rain, snow, or sunshine, I’m there when I say I’ll be.”
If you’re great at communication: “You’ll receive GPS-tracked walk reports and 3-4 photos after every walk, so you always know exactly where your dog went and how much fun they had.”
Add Social Proof Beyond Reviews
Mention:
- Number of dogs you’ve walked: “Over 200 dogs cared for”
- Longest client relationship: “Some clients have used me for 5+ years”
- Repeat booking rate: “95% of my clients book me again”
- Emergency help: “Multiple clients have my number for urgent situations”
Example: “I’ve walked over 300 dogs in Manchester since 2019, with several clients booking me weekly for 5+ years. My repeat booking rate is 98%, and I’m often the first person clients call when they need emergency help.”
Complete Profile Examples
Example 1: The Experienced All-Rounder
Headline: “Professional Dog Walker & Pet Sitter | 6+ Years Experience | Leeds LS6 & LS7”
Bio: “After 6 years of professional pet care in Leeds, I still get excited every morning knowing I get to spend my day with dogs! What started as a part-time side hustle became my full-time passion in 2020.
I currently walk 15-20 dogs per week across Headingley, Hyde Park, and Meanwood, and pride myself on never missing a scheduled walk – rain, snow, or shine. My clients know they can rely on me completely.
I love all breeds but have particular experience with energetic dogs (Spaniels, Collies, Terriers) and puppies needing multiple daily visits. I’m also comfortable with senior dogs who need gentle, shorter walks.
What I offer: • 30-minute walks (solo or small group): £12-15 • 60-minute walks: £20-24 • Home visits: £15-20 • Overnight sitting (weekends): £50/night • Puppy care packages (3-4 visits per day) • Medication administration included • GPS-tracked walks with photo updates
Availability: Monday-Friday: 7-9am, 12-2pm, 5-8pm Weekends: Flexible
Credentials: • Pet First Aid certified • Fully insured (£1M public liability) • Enhanced DBS checked • 45+ five-star reviews
I’d love to meet you and your dog! Message me to arrange a free meet-and-greet.”
Why this works:
- Establishes credibility immediately (6 years, full-time)
- Shows reliability (never missed a walk)
- Specific about location (great for local SEO)
- Clear services and pricing
- Credentials build trust
- Friendly, approachable tone
- Clear call-to-action
Example 2: The Weekend Specialist
Headline: “Reliable Weekend & Holiday Pet Sitting | Overnight Care | Your Home | Birmingham”
Bio: “Working full-time Monday-Friday means I understand the challenge of finding weekend and holiday pet care – that’s exactly why I offer flexible weekend pet sitting services across Birmingham.
I specialise in overnight care at your home, so your pets stay comfortable in their own environment while you’re away. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a two-week holiday, I treat your home and pets as if they were my own.
I’ve cared for over 50 pets since starting in 2021, from nervous cats who hide from strangers to energetic dogs who need multiple walks daily. I adapt to each pet’s personality and routine.
What I offer: • Friday evening through Sunday morning: £100 (2 nights) • Extended holiday care with weekly discount • Multiple daily dog walks included • Home security (mail, lights, bins) • Daily photo/video updates • Plant watering and basic home care
Availability: • Most weekends (book 2-3 weeks ahead) • School holidays and Christmas • Occasional weekday overnight by arrangement
Background: • Pet owner myself (2 cats, 1 dog) • Insured and DBS checked • Comfortable with medication, special diets, nervous pets • Experience with dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds
Perfect for weekend trips, family visits, or holidays. Message me with your dates!”
Why this works:
- Clear niche (weekend/holiday specialist)
- Explains WHY they do this (relatable)
- Specific about what’s included
- Package pricing (Friday-Sunday)
- Addresses pet owner concerns (security, updates)
- Shows flexibility and experience
Example 3: The Affordable Newcomer
Headline: “New Pet Sitter Offering Introductory Rates | Dog Walking & Home Visits | Manchester”
Bio: “I’m new to professional pet sitting but not new to loving and caring for animals! After years of being the friend everyone asked to watch their pets, I’m turning my passion into a part-time business.
I currently work from home three days a week, giving me flexibility for lunchtime dog walks and daytime home visits. My own rescue dog, a Border Collie named Alfie, keeps me active and has taught me so much about canine behavior and training.
I’m offering competitive introductory rates while I build my client base and reviews. I may not have years of professional experience, but I offer reliability, genuine love for animals, and competitive pricing.
What I offer: • 30-minute dog walks: £10 • Home visits (30 min): £12 • Twice-daily visits: £22 • Medication administration: No extra charge • Photo updates after every visit
My availability: • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Flexible all day (work from home) • Tuesday, Thursday: 12-2pm only • Weekends: Available for longer bookings
My background: • Dog owner for 10+ years • Regularly pet-sat for friends and family • DBS checked • Pet First Aid course booked for next month • Building insurance coverage
I’d love to offer a free meet-and-greet so you can decide if I’m right for your pet. No obligation, just a chance to meet and chat!”
Why this works:
- Honesty about being new (builds trust)
- Explains relevant experience (personal pets, friends’ pets)
- Competitive pricing clearly stated
- Shows commitment (DBS check, First Aid)
- Low-pressure approach (free meet-and-greet, no obligation)
- Enthusiasm shines through
Common Profile Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Too Vague
Bad: “I love animals and am available for dog walking.”
Good: “Experienced dog walker specialising in morning walks (7-9am) for working professionals in Leeds LS6. Comfortable with large breeds and high-energy dogs. £12 per 30-minute solo walk.”
Mistake 2: No Personality
Bad: “Professional pet sitter. Insured and DBS checked. Available for dogs and cats.”
Good: “There’s nothing I love more than seeing the excitement on a dog’s face when I arrive for their walk – except maybe the happy exhaustion afterwards! As a professional dog walker in Leeds for 4 years, I’ve learned that every dog has a unique personality, and I tailor each walk to suit them perfectly.”
Mistake 3: Focusing Only on Yourself
Bad: “I want to make extra money pet sitting. I need flexible hours because I’m a student.”
Good: “As a university student with a flexible schedule, I’m available for weekday lunchtime walks when many other sitters are at their 9-5 jobs. Perfect for working professionals who need reliable midday dog walking.”
Mistake 4: No Clear Pricing
Bad: “Competitive rates. Message for prices.”
Good: “Dog walking: £12 per 30 minutes | Home visits: £15 per 30 minutes | Overnight sitting: £50 per night. Package discounts available for regular weekly bookings.”
Why transparency matters: Clients want to know if you’re in their budget BEFORE messaging. Hidden pricing feels suspicious.
Mistake 5: Spelling and Grammar Errors
Impact: Immediate credibility loss. If you can’t proofread your profile, clients worry you won’t pay attention to their pet’s needs.
Solution:
- Write profile in Word/Google Docs first (spell check)
- Read aloud (catches awkward phrasing)
- Ask friend to proofread
- Use Grammarly (free tool) for extra check
Mistake 6: Outdated Information
Problems:
- “Available immediately” from 6 months ago
- “Building client base” when you’re fully booked
- Old prices no longer accurate
- Photos from years ago
Solution: Review and update profile every 3-6 months.
Mistake 7: Generic Stock Photos
Problem: Using random dog photos from Google instead of real photos of you with animals.
Why it fails: Clients can tell. It looks fake and untrustworthy.
Solution: Use only real photos of you with real animals (even if they’re friends’ pets while you build portfolio).
Optimising Your Profile for Different Client Types
For Budget-Conscious Clients
Emphasise:
- Competitive pricing clearly stated
- Package deals and discounts
- What’s included (so they see value)
- Free meet-and-greet
Language: “Affordable pet care doesn’t mean compromising on quality. I offer competitive rates with complete reliability and genuine love for animals.”
For Premium Clients
Emphasise:
- Experience and credentials
- Insurance and professional approach
- Premium services (GPS tracking, videos, etc.)
- Availability and flexibility
Language: “Professional, insured pet care with the personal touch. I treat every pet as if they were my own, providing premium service and complete peace of mind.”
For Nervous Pet Owners
Emphasise:
- Your caring approach
- Communication (updates, photos)
- Meet-and-greet opportunity
- References available
Language: “I understand that trusting someone with your pet is a big decision. That’s why I always offer a free meet-and-greet, provide daily photo updates, and have references from happy clients you can speak with.”
For Busy Professionals
Emphasise:
- Reliability and punctuality
- Convenient scheduling
- Flexible availability
- Efficient communication
Language: “I understand busy schedules – that’s why I offer early morning (7am) and evening walks (up to 8pm), same-day booking confirmation, and quick GPS-tracked walk reports so you’re always in the loop.”
Your Profile Creation Action Plan
Week 1: Gather Materials
Day 1-2:
- Take 30-50 photos with dogs (borrow friends’ pets if needed)
- Select best 6-8 photos
- Edit for lighting and clarity
Day 3-4:
- List all your experience (personal and professional)
- Note any certifications, checks, insurance
- Write down what makes you unique
Day 5-7:
- Draft bio using templates above
- List services and prices
- Define your availability clearly
Week 2: Build and Launch
Day 1-2:
- Create Trader Street profile
- Upload photos and bio
- Add services and pricing
Day 3-4:
- Ask 3-5 friends to review and give feedback
- Make adjustments based on input
- Proofread multiple times
Day 5-7:
- Publish profile
- Share with personal network
- Join local Facebook groups and share
Ongoing: Optimise and Improve
Monthly:
- Add new photos from recent walks
- Update availability
- Refresh bio if anything changes
After each booking:
- Request review
- Add testimonial highlights to profile
Quarterly:
- Review entire profile
- Update prices if needed
- Refresh photos if outdated
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my profile bio be? 150-250 words ideal. Long enough to build trust, short enough to keep attention. Most readers skim, so make every sentence count.
Should I include my rates on my profile? Yes! Transparency builds trust and filters out clients outside your budget. You’ll get fewer but higher-quality inquiries.
What if I have no experience? Be honest! Highlight personal pet ownership, caring for friends’/family’s pets, and offer introductory rates. New doesn’t mean bad – it means affordable and eager to please.
How many photos should I include? 6-8 high-quality photos showing variety. Too few (1-2) looks sparse. Too many (20+) is overwhelming.
Should I offer a free meet-and-greet? Absolutely yes! It’s standard practice, builds trust, and lets you and the pet assess compatibility. Always offer this.
Can I copy these templates exactly? Use them as inspiration and structure, but personalise with your genuine voice and specific details. Authentic profiles convert better than copied ones.
How do I stand out when there are 50 other sitters in my area? Be specific (niche down to breed/service type), show personality, have great photos, accumulate reviews quickly, and update regularly.
When should I update my profile? Major updates: Every 3-6 months. Minor updates: Monthly (new photos, availability). After significant changes: Immediately.
Ready to create a profile that consistently attracts bookings? Set up your free Trader Street profile now using these proven templates and strategies. In just 2-3 hours, you’ll have a professional profile that stands out from the competition and converts browsers into paying clients.
Related Articles for Pet Sitters
- How to Start a Pet Sitting Business with Zero Startup Costs – Launch your business
- Pet Sitter Pricing Guide: What to Charge in Every Situation – Set competitive rates
- Turn One-Time Clients into Regular Bookings: 7 Proven Strategies – Build recurring income
- Pet Sitting Side Hustle: Make £500+ Extra Per Month – Part-time strategies