Pet care and caregiving side hustle apps turn something you probably already enjoy into a steady source of income.
This page covers every platform worth knowing about for pet sitters, dog walkers, babysitters, nannies, and companions for seniors in 2026. Rover and Wag are the most well-known for pet care but platforms like Care.com and UrbanSitter open up childcare and elder care as additional income streams from a single profile. PapaPal is one of the most underrated options on this entire list — very few people know about it and the demand from senior clients is consistent.
Most platforms are completely free to join. A background check and genuine care for the people and animals you work with are all you need to get started.
7 platforms listed · Free resource from stormsmama.com
Rover
Free to Join
Get paid to walk dogs, do drop-in visits, board pets in your home, or house-sit. Set your own rates and schedule. Rover handles payments and provides $1 million in pet coverage per booking.
Some sitters earn $1,000 or more per month. Great for animal lovers who want flexible home income.
Wag
Free to Join
Offer dog walking, boarding, sitting, and training through the Wag app. Apply, pass a background check, and get connected with local pet owners. Wag keeps 40% as their platform fee.
Running both Rover and Wag gives you more booking options and fills more of your calendar
Care.com
Free to Join
Largest digital portal for long and short-term babysitting gigs, elder care assistance, pet care, and house cleaning. Create a profile and connect with families looking for trusted local caregivers.
Multiple service categories mean more income streams from a single profile
UrbanSitter
Free to Join
Trusted community babysitting and nanny network. Connect with local families who need childcare. UrbanSitter uses community referrals and reviews to build trust between caregivers and families.
Community referral model means word-of-mouth builds your bookings quickly once you get started
PapaPal
Free to Join
Companionship gig app for seniors. Assist older adults with light grocery shopping, technology help, transportation, and social engagement. Flexible hours and meaningful work helping seniors in your community.
