Finding the Right Pet Sitter: What to Look for When Hiring Someone to Watch Your Pet When You're Out of Town
Planning a trip can be exciting, but leaving your beloved pet behind can be a source of stress and worry. Fortunately, professional pet sitters offer a solution that allows you to travel with peace of mind, knowing your furry friend is in capable hands. However, not all pet sitters are the same, and it's crucial to find the right fit for both you and your pet.
One of the first things you need to consider is whether you want a pet sitter to come to your home or whether you want to take your pet somewhere else. If you are taking the pet elsewhere, more concerns and worries definitely come up. In this blog, we'll explore what to look for when hiring someone to watch your pet while you're out of town.
Experience and References: When searching for a pet sitter, experience is key. Look for candidates with a proven track record of caring for pets, and don't hesitate to ask for references from previous clients. Reading reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into their service quality. Ask your friends who they use and ask about what it is like for their pets. Some of the best pet sitters do not advertise, but instead rely on word of mouth. Though money can be a real concern (especially with two dogs like I have, as with most everything, the cheapest person is usually not the best. Most of the cheap sitters are inexperienced or have inadequate facilities.
Certifications and Training: Professional pet sitters often undergo training and certification programs. Certifications from organizations like the Pet Sitters International (PSI) or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) can indicate a commitment to high standards of care. These are not a necessity, but they can help you to know that the sitter will be prepared in the case of an emergency or of two pets not getting along.
Insurance and Bonding: A responsible pet sitter should have liability insurance and be bonded. This not only protects the pet sitter but also provides assurance that they can cover any unexpected incidents, such as accidents or harm to your pet or your property if they are coming to your home. Unexpected things can happen even with the best preparations. Make sure you will be covered if your pet is hurt or hurts another pet.
Initial Consultation: A thorough initial meeting is essential. This allows you to assess the pet sitter's rapport with your pet and discuss your pet's needs, routines, and any specific requirements. Pay attention to how attentive and knowledgeable they are during this meeting. Is there a fenced in area? Where do the pets sleep? How often are they fed? how do they keep pets from eating another’s food? How often do they get exercise? Do they have any experience caring for a pet with (fill in the blank for your pet)? How many pets do they take care of at one time (you may be shocked by the answer)? Do not be afraid to ask as many questions as needed.
Emergency Preparedness: Inquire about their plans for handling emergencies. A responsible pet sitter should have a clear protocol for medical emergencies, such as knowing the location of the nearest vet and having your pet's medical information on hand.
Daily Routine and Services: Discuss the daily routine and services they'll provide, including feeding, exercise, grooming, and medication administration if necessary. Assume nothing: ensure they can accommodate your pet's specific needs.
Communication: Clear and regular communication is crucial. Ask about their communication methods, such as text updates, photos, or phone calls, to keep you informed about your pet's well-being while you're away. This will give you peace that your pet is being taken care of.
Pet Compatibility: Ensure that the pet sitter is comfortable and experienced with your type of pet, whether it's a dog, cat, bird, reptile, or small mammal. Different animals have unique care requirements and behaviors.
Contracts and Terms: Have a written agreement in place that outlines all terms and conditions, including fees, payment schedules, cancellation policies, and the duration of the pet-sitting services.
Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right or if you have any reservations about a potential pet sitter, continue your search until you find someone you're comfortable entrusting with your pet's care. I have a personal example of this. A few years back we lost our fantastic pet sitter when she moved to another state. We began looking for a new one. We visited one that seemed to check all the boxes, but something just didn’t feel right for both my husband and I. Not more than a month later a dog died while in this person’s care: the dog got out and was hit by a car because she wasn’t following the needed safety procedures. I am so glad we trusted out gut.
Try out the sitter: Before you out your pet with a sitter for a week or more, try the sitter out over night. This allows you to see how the pet does in the sitter’s care before you commit to a longer time, and it gives the pet time to get used to a new person so a longer stay will not be as anxiety producing. If you are on a tight budget this may seem like a waste of money, but in reality this is a good investment in you and your pet’s peace of mind.
Finding the right pet sitter can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable trip for you and your pet. By considering factors such as experience, certifications, insurance, and a pet sitter's ability to meet your pet's unique needs, you can find a reliable and caring professional who will provide top-notch care while you're out of town. Remember, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your pet is in safe hands is invaluable.
