What is a normal rate for weekly 3 hour pet sitting and light housekeeping? Issues regarding commute & gas.?

Question

I just started working M-F 12-3pm at $14.00 per hour (this includes pet sitting for two dogs and relatively heavy load of house chores). I live almost an hour away from her place & even though I need the money desperately, gas is killing me. Taking into consideration my drive can someone give me a fair price for M-F 3 hour pet & house cleaning? Also, I take care of her house and pets while she's out of town for $35.00 a night. Again, due to the 50 minute commute and cost of gas am I making any money at all? And, should I possibly ask for more?

Answer 1

In my opinion, you're getting a fair per/hour rate for what you're doing - and as awful as gas prices are right now, it's not your employer's fault that you live an hour away.  You might have to consider searching for a job closer to where you live.