Choosing the best pet sitter for you and your pet isn’t an easy decision. There are many things to consider when looking for someone to take care of your beloved cat or dog. You’ve already taken time to choose the best hotel and flights for your trip, but finding a pet sitter can make or break the whole thing. Don’t worry; we’ve outlined 6 top tips to help you choose the best pet sitter you can find.
- Consider all options
There are full time professional pet sitters, who will either stay in your home with your pet or bring them to theirs. Part time sitters are also available, who will stop by a few times daily to feed, walk and socialize your pet. Professional sitters may also offer grooming and training in addition to pet sitting. They may also bring in your mail and water your plants. The first step in finding a pet sitter is for you to consider all your needs before finding someone to fill them.
- Know your pet
If you have a pet that experiences anxiety or has special needs, involve your vet in your search for a pet sitter. For anxious animals, it may be best to hire a pet sitter who visits your home rather than boarding them. A pet with separation anxiety would be better off with a pet sitter who stays in your home rather than one who only visits occasionally. If your dog is territorial, however, it may be better for them to be boarded rather than go into protection mode while you are gone. Work with your vet to compile a list of questions for you to ask pet sitting candidates.
- Begin the search early
Start as far in advance as possible to find the perfect pet sitter for you and your pet. The best sitters will be booked well in advance during popular holiday seasons and vacation times. To make sure you are able to get your first choice of pet sitters, its best to begin the search process early.
- Look for reviews and referrals
Ask friends, your vet and read social media reviews to find recommendations for the best pet sitters in your area. There are two major pet-sitting organizations– Pet Sitters International and the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. Use these resources to look for qualified pet sitters in your area. Make sure your pet sitter is bonded and insured and will provide you with references to check their credentials.
- Have a list of questions ready
In addition to having the pet sitter candidate meet your pet to see how they interact with each other, having a list of interview questions is also a good idea. A few important ones are:
- What is your experience with animals in addition to pet sitting?
- Do you have a written contract for me to review?
- How frequent will your visits be and for how long?
- What do you do on a typical visit?
- Have you handled an emergency while pet sitting and can you tell me about it?
- Consider boarding
Many pet owners dismiss boarding their pets immediately in favor of a familiar environment for their furry friends. However, boarding facilities have come a long way in the last few years, including socialization and training option as well as massages, special diets and group play. Your boarding facility may also include a web cam option, allowing you to look in on your pet while you are away.
In general, you will know when you have found the right pet sitter. Your pet will take to them and you’ll have a good feeling about them too. Don’t rely on instinct alone; treat this as a job interview and make sure the candidate is taking you seriously. The pet sitter should be asking you questions and taking their own notes to make sure they are the right fit for the job. With the right investigation, your pet will have a new friend they look forward to being with again.
