Hi @Lovewins , you were smart to come to the forum! Good move. What occurs to me right off the bat is that you should remove your first negative sentence, “while I have no formal experience … Instead, begin with, " I have spent most of my life owning and caring for animals and have house sat for family and friends.” Then, work on getting more references, especially from anyone whose pets you have cared for and/or a boss or supervisor. Where possible, add pictures of you with pets. I think you’re on the right track. You might want to take a look at this topic from way back:
https://forum.trustedhousesitters.com/t/nobody-wants-me-advice-for-a-first-time-house-sitter/
Don’t give up. If you can get your first sit, do a great job and get a great review, you’ll be on your way!