Is your neighbor hinting that they’re tired of checking in on your two little pugs every time you go away for the weekend? Has your BFF put their foot down and requested that you find someone else to help care for your kitties during those long, double-shift work days?
Maybe it’s time to find a trusted pet sitter to help with your pet care routine!
4 Steps to Find the Perfect Pet Sitter:
- Establish your pet’s care routine
- Ask for referrals
- Check local pet sitting businesses and apps
- Interview
1. Record your pet’s care routine
You know your pet better than anyone. It’s time to list out your care routine and note any behaviors, concerns or special requirements that you’ll need your pet sitter to understand. How long can they stay inside until they need to go out? What is their diet? What are their favorite treats or toys?
2. Ask for referrals
You have friends and family that you trust, so why not start with them? Ask around, and see if anyone in your existing local network already knows a trusted sitter. Work smarter, not harder!
3. Check local pet sitting businesses and apps
Use your research resources! Did you know there are plenty of apps to help you find a sitter? Rover and Wag are two examples. You can create an account on either of these for a starting point in your search. Google “pet sitters near me” and contact 2 or 3 potential pet sitting businesses. The most important thing for you and your pet is that the right person is watching over your furry family, so give yourself options!
4. Interview
Finally, you have a few pet sitters in mind. Now it’s time for them to meet your furry loved one(s). This may be the most important step in this process, so take your time! Set a meeting with your sitter, and when they arrive at your home to meet you and your pet, pay close attention to your pet’s behavior. Does she shy away from the sitter when she’s usually friendly with everyone? Or does she happily approach the sitter? You know your pet’s behavior best. You’ll know the right one based on your pet’s reactions to this new friendly face. Ask specific questions to the sitters, such as whether they have experience with your required care routine. Ask for feedback after describing your care routine to ensure the sitter understands fully.
Once you’ve found your perfect sitter…
Once you’ve found the right sitter, be sure to give them advanced notice (if you can) of the dates you need them. If you have a long-term care arrangement, be very clear on your expectations. Any experienced sitter will know that communication is key and will ask as many questions as necessary to ensure you and your pet’s needs are understood.
If you’re currently searching for a pet sitter, consider us! Click here to submit a form with your inquiry and date availability for an initial meeting. We’d love to meet you!
The Paw People 
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