When it comes to your furry family members, you want nothing but the best for their care and well-being. As much as you’d love to be there for them all the time, sometimes life calls for finding a pet sitter to step in. But with so many options out there, how do you ensure that you’re choosing the right person for the job? Just as you would when hiring a babysitter, it’s important to spend time getting to know your potential pet sitter and make sure they meet your standards. To make the process easier, here are five crucial questions to ask each candidate to ensure your pet receives the love and attention they deserve.
1. Why Do You Like Being a Pet Sitter?
When searching for a pet sitter, it’s important to assess not just their qualifications but also their love for animals. Asking about their enjoyment of being a pet sitter can initiate a conversation and provide insight into their perspective on their role.
By listening to the way they speak about animals, you can quickly get a sense of their personality and determine if they are truly passionate about pet care or if they simply view it as a means of income. Use this information to make a more informed decision on whether they would be the best fit for your furry family member.
2. What Services Do You Include?
Pet sitting services can vary greatly, and it’s essential to understand the different options available to you. Some pet sitters offer in-home services, where they come and stay with your pets overnight. This can be a great option if you don’t want to leave your beloved pet alone for too long. On the other hand, some sitters take pets into their homes. So, it’s crucial to understand how many pets they care for at one time, what vaccinations are required, and if dogs are crated.
According to Pet Sitters International (PSI), it’s essential to verify that the sitter has the necessary licenses and permits for boarding pets. For those who visit your home to care for your pets a few times a day, you’ll want to establish the frequency and duration of each visit and confirm that your key will be kept secure in a lockbox and your security code protected.
3. Are You Bonded and Insured?
When choosing a pet-sitting company, look for one that takes its business seriously and has insurance and bonding in place. Ask for proof of coverage, which protects both pets and the home while in the sitter’s care. Bonding protects against theft or damage caused by company employees or contractors. If the company has multiple staff, meet the specific sitter who will care for your pets to build a relationship and provide peace of mind.
4. What Is Your Experience With Pet Care?
It’s crucial to gauge a pet sitter’s experience when it comes to caring for animals. By inquiring about their history in the field, you can establish their responsibility and ability to handle any potential emergencies with your pet. Additionally, inquiring about any professional training, such as being a vet tech or groomer, can give you an idea of the level of expertise they bring to the table.
5. How Do You Handle Emergencies?
When it comes to unexpected emergencies with your animal, you want to make sure your pet sitter is equipped with a solid plan of action. To ensure your peace of mind, consider evaluating their course of action and familiarizing yourself with the vet they would take your dog to in case of an emergency. It’s also vital to confirm that the sitter is aware of the location of the nearest after-hours vet and has a reliable way to reach you. Having these details in place can provide you with the reassurance you need in case of an emergency.
Ensure your furry friends receive the care they deserve while you’re away – book with us today and give yourself peace of mind. Our team of experienced pet sitters will provide exceptional care and comfort for your beloved pets. Don’t wait! Schedule your appointment now!
