For pet owners, finding extra income without sacrificing time with their furry friends is a challenge. A rigid second job isn’t ideal when you need to walk your dog, feed your cat, or be available for unexpected vet visits. That’s why flexible side hustles are the perfect solution—they let you earn on your own schedule while still handling everything else life throws at you.
Even if you don’t have pets, having control over your time makes life easier. Whether you need a side hustle that works around childcare, school, or another job, there are plenty of ways to earn without being tied to a strict schedule. Here are the best options for making extra cash while keeping your freedom.
1. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
If you love animals, why not get paid to spend time with them? Apps like Rover and Wag let you set your own hours, taking on pet-sitting gigs or walking dogs when it fits your schedule. It’s a great way to earn while getting fresh air and exercise.
2. Freelance Writing
Writing is one of the most flexible ways to make money. You can write blog posts, product descriptions, or even social media content for businesses. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and ProBlogger help you find clients and projects that match your skills.
3. Virtual Assistance
Businesses always need help with administrative tasks like scheduling, email management, and social media posting. As a virtual assistant, you can work remotely and set your own hours. Many clients just need a few hours of help per week, making this an easy side gig to fit into your routine.
4. Selling Handmade Goods
If you’re crafty, turning your hobby into a side hustle can be fun and profitable. Etsy and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to sell handmade jewelry, home décor, pet accessories, and more. You create items on your own time and sell when you’re ready.
5. Rideshare or Delivery Driving
Driving for Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, or Instacart gives you complete control over your schedule. You can work for a few hours in the morning, late at night, or just on weekends—whatever works best for you. Plus, if you have a pet at home, you can log off and take a break whenever needed.
6. Online Tutoring
If you’re good at a particular subject, tutoring online can be a great way to earn extra money. Websites like VIPKid, Wyzant, and Tutor.com let you teach students from anywhere. You set your availability, making it a side hustle that fits around your main job or other responsibilities.
7. Flipping Items for Profit
Flipping means buying things at a low price and reselling them for more. You can find deals at thrift stores, yard sales, or discount outlets and sell items on eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace. Some people specialize in furniture, clothing, or even pet supplies.
8. Renting Out a Spare Room or Space
If you have an extra bedroom, garage, or even just a parking spot, you can rent it out for passive income. Platforms like Airbnb and Neighbor let you list your space and choose when you want to rent it out. It’s an easy way to make money without much effort.
9. Test Websites and Apps
Companies pay real users to test websites and apps before launching them. Sites like UserTesting and TryMyUI let you complete short tasks and provide feedback, paying you per test. It’s simple, requires no experience, and takes only a few minutes per session.
10. Grocery or Package Delivery
Apps like Instacart, Shipt, and Amazon Flex let you deliver groceries or packages on your own schedule. If you like driving but don’t want passengers, this is a great alternative to rideshare driving.
11. Social Media Management
If you spend a lot of time on social media, you might as well get paid for it. Many small businesses need help creating posts, responding to comments, and growing their accounts. You can offer your services as a freelancer and manage multiple clients at once.
12. Photography
If you have a good eye for photography, selling your photos online can bring in extra income. Websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Etsy allow you to upload pictures and get paid each time someone downloads them. You can also do portrait sessions or pet photography on the side.
13. House Sitting
House sitting is an easy way to make money, especially if you sign up on platforms like TrustedHousesitters or Care.com. Some gigs even include pet care, so if you love animals, it’s a double win. Most house-sitting jobs just require you to be present and keep things running smoothly while the owner is away.
14. Affiliate Marketing
If you have a blog, YouTube channel, or even just a strong social media presence, affiliate marketing can bring in passive income. You promote products and earn a commission when someone buys through your unique link. Amazon, pet supply brands, and countless other companies offer affiliate programs.
Related: Fur-Free Rides: 10 Strategies to Keep Your Car Clean with Pets
15. Mystery Shopping
Get paid to shop, dine out, or even visit pet-friendly hotels. Mystery shopping companies pay you to evaluate customer service and store experiences. Sites like Market Force and BestMark offer assignments you can accept based on your schedule.
Related: Top 10 Dog-Friendly Destinations That Your Pup Will Love
