Understand Your Pet’s Needs
Every pet is different. Dogs, cats, birds, or small animals like rabbits all have unique requirements, and your pet sitter should be able to meet them. Consider:
- Activity Level: Does your dog need daily walks or high-energy playtime?
- Socialization: Is your pet shy or highly sociable?
- Special Care: Does your pet have medical needs or require a special diet?
Make a list of your pet’s specific needs so you can share it with potential sitters to ensure they’re comfortable and capable.
Look for Experience and Expertise
A great pet sitter has both experience and a genuine love for animals. When researching candidates, look for:
- References and Reviews: Check for testimonials or ask friends and family for recommendations.
- Relevant Experience: Have they cared for pets like yours before?
- Certifications: Sitters with pet CPR or first-aid training are a big plus.
If your pet has special needs, like anxiety or medical conditions, find a sitter who has handled similar situations.
Meet Them in Person (Or Virtually)
Before hiring, schedule a meet-and-greet to ensure they’re a good fit. Watch how they interact with your pet—do they show genuine care and patience? This is also the perfect opportunity to ask questions, like:
- How much time will you spend with my pet each day?
- What’s your process in case of an emergency?
- Are you comfortable with specific tasks, like administering medication?
Trust your instincts—if something feels off, keep looking.
Ensure They’ll Spend Quality Time
One of the most important aspects of a good pet sitter is their commitment to spending quality time with your pet. Ask how much time they’ll dedicate to:
- Playtime and Exercise: Ensure they’ll keep your pet active and engaged.
- Companionship: Pets can get lonely when you’re gone, so having a sitter who genuinely enjoys hanging out with them is key.
- Routine Care: Feeding, grooming, and cleaning should all be done on schedule.
Do a Trial Run
If possible, arrange a short trial period before your trip. This could be a day or weekend where the sitter takes care of your pet while you’re nearby. It’s a great way to see how your pet responds to them and address any concerns ahead of time.
Provide Detailed Instructions
Set your sitter up for success by leaving clear instructions, including:
- Feeding Schedule: Include portions and meal times.
- Exercise Needs: Note how often and how long they should walk or play with your pet.
- Emergency Contacts: Leave your vet’s number and a backup contact in case of emergencies.
- Behavioral Notes: Highlight quirks, like fears of thunderstorms or tendencies to chew on furniture.
Consider creating a checklist to make things even easier for your sitter.
Check-In Regularly
While you’re away, ask for updates! A great sitter will keep you in the loop with photos, videos, or texts to reassure you that your pet is doing well.
Evaluate Post-Trip
When you return, take note of how your pet behaves. Are they happy, calm, and well-fed? Did the sitter follow your instructions? Your pet’s demeanor will tell you a lot about the quality of care they received.
