How do you know your pet sitter or dog walker is qualified?
Ask these 3 questions:
- If they are a member of either of the two major pet-sitting associations (Pet Sitters International and the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters). Membership in these organizations requires that the person be bonded and insured to protect you, the pet owner, against damages, theft and anything that may happen to your animal while in their care.
- References, specifically, references that you are allowed to contact. You are putting your best friend in their care, it’s worth the phone call!
- A little about their experience; e.g. have they handled emergency vet visits before? How many years have they been doing this? Do they know Canine CPR? And anything else relevant to your animal, such as whether or not they have administered diabetic injections, are they able to carry your animal up steps if necessary, etc.
If you have a pet that requires medication, has a medical condition that requires any special observations or attention (like a seizure disorder, etc..), be sure to talk to that person about the medical needs, and if possible, see if they have had training or experience with similar pets.
Most pet sitters and dog walkers are very forward with what they can accommodate, what they are trained for, and what they feel comfortable working with. Many dog walkers have dealt with dogs with medical needs before, even if not your exact condition, and will be willing to work with you to safely provide services for your pet. If they have had clients with medical needs before, be sure to get a reference and talk to that person about their experiences.
Asking these 3 questions while interviewing your future pet sitter or dog walker will help ensure a happy, seamless transition for your best friend.
So, you’ve found the best dog walker or pet sitter in the world? It’s time for some pointers on your end.
Aside from making sure they know your home’s security system and how to access what they need, here are some tips:
The first thing you need to do is to be sure your pet is used to strangers. This sounds very simple but many people have pets who – when their owners are not there (and sometimes when they are) – become aggressive or fearful. Be sure to get your pet out and about so that new people don’t make them as nervous. Also, be sure your pet is current on vaccinations, and that they have identification on their collars at all times. You never predict that anything bad will happen, but you want to prepare for it in case it does.
The second thing is to be sure to book your appointments early. Sometimes it may happen when you need to schedule last minute (for which, if they agree, you should tip well), but most of the time it is courteous to give them at least two weeks notice when you will need their services…and substantially more before holidays. Don’t be afraid to call early for holiday and busy vacation months.
Be sure that if you have a pet sitter or walker you leave all of your contact information in a place that you are both aware of. For example, on the refrigerator, leave important numbers such as your cell phone number, the veterinary phone and address, where you will be and how to reach you, etc. They likely have this information beforehand, but “doubling up” never hurts.
And- don’t forget- give your pet plenty of love when you leave and return!
Wouldn’t it be nice to have your pet sitting business listed here?
Phillypetsitters.com is looking for pet sitters and dog walkers in Philadelphia who would like to reach a targeted, ready-to-buy audience of Pet Owners who need your services!
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