Paddled but could be operated pet-free (5)
I believe the answer is:
oared
'paddled' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'could be operated pet-free' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'be' could be 'are' (I've seen this in another clue) and 'are' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'od' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).
'but' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for oared that I've seen before include "Propelled like a rowing boat" , "Provided with motive power" , "Prepared for a row" , "Adore (anag.)" , "Like a rowing eight" .)