Because many families rely on two incomes to pay the bills, there are many empty houses during the work week, with the animals inside left to their own devices. Instead of coming home at lunch, or sending the pooch to doggy daycare, dog owners are choosing to hire pet sitters for midday walks, potty breaks, and feedings. Convenience and affordability are two major benefits that pet sitters provide; however, not all pet sitters are created equal. Here is what to look for to find a good pet sitter for your dog.
Just as one would hope a teacher to be fond of children, one would also hope a pet sitter to be fond of pets. You should look for a pet sitter with a background in pet care, training, or ownership. Ask for references, and call those listed to see how long they have used the pet sitter, and find out how this person treats their animals and home. Because the pet sitter will have a key to your home, you should be careful to choose someone that is bonded and insured. This will protect you in case something goes missing from your home, and protect your pet in case something should happen while in the pet sitter’s care.
When you begin interviewing pet sitters (yes, you should interview at least three), make one list of questions to ask every sitter. You will be able to tell a lot about the pet sitter’s knowledge and experience, and general demeanor, by their answers to your questions. Basics like: ‘Why did you become a pet sitter?’ and ‘What is your history in pet care?’ are fine to begin with. Be sure to ask more complicated questions such as: ‘What would you do if my dog happened to get away while under your supervision?’ It is in your dog’s best interest to interview potential sitters, and the more you speak with, the more likely you will find a good pet sitter for your dog.
Once you have chosen a prime candidate, you should have the sitter come over to meet your dog while you are at home, before the pet sitter service begins. All good pet sitters require a meeting like this, so if a potential pet sitter refuses, you do not want this person to take care of your pet! Watch how the pet sitter interacts with your dog. Is this person willing to get down on their hands and knees to play with Fido? Does your dog seem to accept this person into your home? You definitely want to have a pet sitter that enjoys spending time with your animal, so be wary of anyone who seems disinterested or nonchalant during their initial meeting with your pet.
To find a good pet sitter for your dog, you must be cautious, inquisitive, and persistent. Ask questions about scheduling, pay, and service up front to avoid surprises later. Most importantly, find a pet sitter that loves dogs, especially yours. If you find the right person, you will provide a great companion for your pet, and save yourself a lot of worry and guilt when you are away!