What to Look for In a Pet Sitter

It is almost that time of year again when most people go away for a few days to relax and unwind or explore someplace that they have never been to. That is fun for most people, though pet owners also have to worry about what they can do with their beloved babies while they are away. 

Many people decide to place their pets in a kennel. I recently wrote an article about choosing the right kennel for your pet. If you haven't had a chance to check it out, you can read it right here.

You need to know exactly what you want in a pet sitter. Do you want someone to come in three to four times daily to let your dogs outside for an hour or so? Do you want someone who will walk your dog like you normally would? What about playing? 

Even if you have a cat, you may want someone to come sit with your pet for a little bit each day. Would you prefer someone stay overnight so your pets aren't alone?

If your friends have used someone, don't hesitate to ask who they use. It may also be helpful to ask them what they liked and didn't like about a particular person. This may help you figure out what questions you need to ask in order to be comfortable leaving your pets with them. 

If your friends don't have any ideas, you can look at The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). This is a nonprofit trade association for pet sitters and their businesses. You can look up pet sitters by zip code. These are professional pet sitters, meaning that it may cost you more than hiring a high schooler in the neighborhood. 

You may also want to check into a pet-sitting company. These companies are often bonded and insured, which can give you even more peace of mind. They may offer background checks and training, which can make you feel even better. 

These companies, especially if they have multiple sitters, may be able to help if something happens to your pet sitter. If your sitter is running late due to an emergency, they probably have extras to help cover these things. 

You should also find out what the pet sitter will do in an emergency. While you may hope that your pet sitter will take your dog to the veterinarian if needed, they may have someone close that they use when owners are out of town. 

If they are happy taking your dog to his or her veterinarian, you need to talk to your veterinarian's office and let them know that you will be out of town and are letting the sitter make the decisions for you if you are unavailable. 

When you narrow down your search, you should meet with them in person (along with your pet). Not only do you need to feel comfortable, but your pet needs to be happy with your choice, too. You are going to want someone who is interested in talking to you and asking questions about your pet, as well as someone who is interested in getting to know your pet. Watch how they interact. Does your dog seem happy to see the pet sitter or is he or she acting leery around them? 

Be ready for your pet sitter. You should have a detailed list of all of the things that you are expecting from them, including times. If you want your pet fed at a certain time of day or walked during the lunch hour, you need to let your sitter know. 

You should also keep all of the supplies in one area so that it is easy to find. Make sure that any food that your dog eats (as well as a cup showing them how much he or she needs to be fed) is right there, as well as any treats that your pet is allowed to have. Toys, leashes, and other supplies should be all in the same spot so your pet sitter doesn't waste time looking for things.

Hiring a pet sitter is a big decision. You are going to have to find someone that you trust, as well as your dog trusts. But before you get that far, you need to figure out what you want in a pet sitter. Do you want someone to come for an hour three or four times a day? Do you want someone to stay at your house overnight? Do you want someone to play with your pet or take your dog for extra-long walks? 

When you figure that out, you can start looking by asking around. You may feel comfortable hiring the high school girl next door, though you may also want to look into a company that hires pet sitters. These companies are often bonded and insured, ready for anything that could happen. This may give you extra peace of mind when you head out on vacation!

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Previously published on Medium and/or Newsbreak.