When choosing a pet sitter for your dog, you should be smart about your decision. The best sitter is someone you can trust to provide the necessary care for your dog. It is a good idea to ask questions, especially if you have an unusual dog or one with a complex medical history. You also want to make sure your pet sitter has the right training and credentials to handle your animal’s needs.
For the pet owner who wants to avoid the headache of selecting a pet sitter, it’s often a good idea to have a sitter recommended by a friend. The same goes for a pet sitter who is willing to work around your schedule. Many professional pet sitters have an official contract. The contract should include details about the services and fees you will pay, the amount of time the sitter will spend with your pet, and the cancellation policy.
The best sitter for your animal will also be able to make your pet feel at home. It is a good idea to have all necessary supplies in a central location. You may also want to have enough food for your pet’s estimated absence. A GPS collar can ensure that your pooch gets the exercise it needs.
For the most part, most pet sitters are animal lovers. A few have additional jobs like dog trainers, veterinarians, and groomers. Those with a background in veterinary medicine will be able to handle emergency medical situations more quickly. They can also observe a pet’s behavior and note any unusual occurrences. Some even send digital photos to you in the mail.
It is a good idea to find out whether your sitter is bonded. If he or she isn’t, you are leaving your dog with a stranger. A bonded pet sitter should be willing to go the extra mile to keep your pet safe. He or she should also be able to make the necessary arrangements for your pets travels.
When you are looking for a sitter for your pet, the Humane Society has a list of the most important items you should look for. It’s a good idea to also do some reading on your own, since the pet sitting industry is relatively small. You can get a good sense of the going rate in your area by interviewing several sitters.
You will be able to tell a pet sitter who is truly interested in caring for your pet. Some sitters will also be willing to spend a day getting to know your dog and performing a test run before you sign on the dotted line.
You should also be aware of the pet’s diet and medical history. It’s also a good idea to find out whether your new sitter has a backup plan for unexpected emergencies. You should also write down your expectations for the sitter’s role, particularly with regard to feeding, playing, and exercising your pet. It’s a good idea to put the pet’s bowls and water bottle in an easy to reach location.
