Top 10 Tips For Hiring A Pet Sitter
Follow these handy tips for hiring a pet sitter to ensure your furry family members are safe, happy, and cared for while you’re away.
1. Check Experience
Ask how long they’ve been pet sitting and what types of pets they’ve cared for. Experience with your specific type or breed is a big plus.
2. Verify Credentials
Look for pet CPR/first aid certification, pet care training, or memberships in professional pet-sitting associations.
3. Ask for References
Speak with past clients to confirm reliability, trustworthiness, and quality of care.
4. Meet in Person
Schedule a meet-and-greet to see how your pet reacts to the sitter and ensure a comfortable connection.
5. Discuss Duties Clearly
Define whether they’ll walk, feed, administer medication, groom, or provide other services. Be specific about expectations.
6. Check Availability
Ensure the sitter can meet your schedule, including holidays, weekends, or overnight needs.
7. Understand Rates & Payment
Clarify fees, overtime charges, and any additional costs (like travel, supplies, or emergency care).
8. Review Emergency Plans
Ask how they handle medical issues, accidents, or other emergencies, including access to your vet.
9. Communication Style
Confirm how often and in what form they’ll provide updates—texts, photos, or reports.
10. Start with a Trial
Consider a short test visit or day before leaving for an extended period to see how your pet responds and assess the sitter’s reliability.
