Help Wanted: Must Love Dogs

Posted by Billy Francis

This article was updated in September 2021.

If you’re reading this, you’re probably a dog lover. You enjoy nothing more than spending time with a heartbeat at your feet, so why not get paid for your “pup-session?” It’s time to dust off the resume, start a doggy day job, and never work another day in your life.

Even office dogs need a catnap now and then. Photo by BringFido

If you want to help people and their pets discover dog-friendly places to stay and things to do around the world, join us at BringFido! From the huge wall lined with photos of smiling pooches (sent in by our customers) to a fortune-telling doggy Zoltar machine and rows upon rows of premium treats in the kitchen, our office in Greenville has been designed with canine coworkers in mind. And we're always on the lookout for talented individuals who share our vision to make the world a dog-friendlier place! If you are ready for a career move and want to explore new opportunities with your pup by your side, check out our open positions here.

Pet-Friendly Airbnb Host

Be the next host with the most. Photo by Facebook.com/airbnb

Finding the “pawfect” place to stay with a pooch isn’t easy, but you’ll never forget the times when a rental ticked every box. Becoming an Airbnb host is a great way to make an income and help the wider canine community discover your little slice of heaven. From offering up your guest room that’s been gathering dust to leading a guided hike of your favorite spots, you can host anything, anywhere with Airbnb. And you won’t have to do it alone. Airbnb supports new hosts with community and resources centers, live webinars and one-on-ones with Airbnb Ambassadors. If you’re ready to open your doors to travelers on two legs and four, sign up to become an Airbnb host today.

Veterinarian

“If I’m sick, then who’s going to chase the mail carrier?” Photo by Petco

Veterinarian is one of the most popular jobs among kids on career day, but how many actually follow through? Just like human doctors, there’s a lengthy training process that goes with this highly skilled profession (8-10 years). Those who stick it out are rewarded with the most prestigious animal job of all. They get to spend their days hanging out improving and saving the lives of a variety of creatures. If you don’t have that kind of time, you can take a two-year course to become a veterinary technician and assist in daily tasks instead.

Dog Walker

“Who’s walking who?” Photo by iStock/yellowsarah

Becoming a professional dog walker is a walk in the park; just grab a leash and go! Many people will soon return to the office for work, which means pups will be left alone for the first time in a while. Even if owners have prepared their beloved roommates for time apart, they may need some additional company. That’s when the reliable dog walker can swoop in and save the day, and get Fido’s steps in at the same time.

Groomer

“Plenty of room to groom!” Photo by iStock/hedgehog94

While some dogs wake up cute, others have to work for it. That’s where the dog groomer comes in. They specialize in transforming diamonds in the “ruff” with slick trims, washing and nail work. Many grooming companies offer on-the-job apprenticeships where you can get paid to learn the ropes from a pro.

"Pawtographer”

“If he has the camera, who took this pic? Mind blown!” Photo by Treddy Chen on Unsplash

Take Fido’s stunning Instagram shots to the next level with a career in canine photography. If catching Fido’s best side is your speciality, this is the job for you. Build up a portfolio by snapping your pup’s playmates at the dog park before moving on to paid gigs at dog weddings, parties, and glamour shoots.

Dog Sitter

Two’s company, but seven’s a "pawty!” Photo by @strangelolo

Dogs love sitting, but not as much as they love the dog sitter. This “paws-on” position involves hanging out with the pack all day - need we say more? BringFido’s very own Community Manager, Lauren, has sat more than 155 pups in her side hustle as a dog sitter.

Pet Store Sales Associate

“Buy one, get two free!” Photo by @threegles

You don't have to be an expert in canine nutrition or the best toy for every dog to get through the day as a sales associate at the pet store. A cheerful disposition, love of animals and willingness to help are all you need if you want to hang out with four-legged shoppers.

Dog Trainer

It's all tricks until someone gets a treat. Photo by Facebook.com/CampUnleashed

Do you remember how good it felt when you said “Sit” and Fido actually sat? You can get that kind of satisfaction every single day by becoming a dog trainer, a job that takes serious dedication, patience and a keen eye for detail. You’ll teach dogs of all levels, sizes and breeds a range of important skills, from leash work and recall to taking on the big dogs at events like The Westminster Kennel Club and Crufts.

K9 Officer

A K9 officer on patrol with his dog. Photo by Flickr/Elvert Barnes

K9 officers need to know that their “pawtner” always has their back. People considering this career must work well with animals, as they are responsible not only for training their K9 agents but also caring for them at all times. To start working in the K9 Unit, you’ll first need experience as a regular police officer. Then, embark on months of training together that will place you in situations that could arise in the field, like chasing down suspects and locating evidence. Bomb disposal and narcotics dogs require a keen sense of smell and even more training.

Dog Baker / Chef

“Number 14 lacked the peanut butteriness of number 7. Next!” Photo by @somethingnaturalack

The days of dry, flavorless kibble are long gone. Modern dogs are begging for a different standard of food that’s human-grade, chef-inspired and prepared using organic ingredients. The pet industry needs great chefs with innovative baking ideas or gourmet meals that will take Fido’s palate to the next level, and it all starts in your kitchen - as long as your live-in taster can handle it!

Canine Agent

“I’m ready for my close-up.” Photo by Claire Dore

If you’re going to make it in the cutthroat world of showbiz, you don’t need talent - you just need to see it in others. Canine agents get paid for discovering furry superstars. Bonny the Shih Tzu, the four-legged star of “Seven Psychopaths,” was plucked from obscurity on Craigslist and landed feet first on the red carpet. Or, if you have a clever, dashing and well-trained pooch, you can be the agent and manager for your canine A-lister.

Bonus: Shelter Volunteer

“Can you tell that we love our jobs?” Photo by Facebook.com/HumaneSociety305

One of the most important jobs on this list doesn’t have a paycheck. Instead, it comes with a healthy dose of helper’s high, a warm fuzzy feeling inside when you know you’ve done something to make another living being’s life better. Shelter volunteers keep animals company, build morale and become a temporary family for animals looking for a permanent home. And you can’t put a price on that!

Which dog-friendly job suits you best? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!