We all have to leave our beloved dog behind sometimes, whether
it be for such reasons as taking a vacation, a work trip,
experiencing illness and so forth. Finding the right
pet-sitter is crucial to keeping your pet(s) happy
when you are away from home.
Steps
- Ask friends, neighbors and family for suggestions. Sometimes a
reliable and trustworthy sitter is right under your nose in the
form of next door's teens or the retired couple across the street.
What better people than those you already know, trust and are close
to your home? You can also ask them to keep an eye on things for
you if you are lucky enough to get such people.
- Visit local Pet-Groomers because they are a great source of
information! Don't be afraid to approach them, even if you don't
frequently visit their shop.
- Follow the recommendations. If you don't get someone from your
immediate circle but they provide you with suggestions, follow
these up. People's recommendations by word-of-mouth are a very good
indication that the pet-sitter they are familiar with is good. If
nobody has any suggestions, use the telephone directory, internet
advertising sites (for example, Craig's List, a regular online
bulletin board on a local pet's page) or post messages in your
local stores seeking someone. Another possible source of help is
your local veterinarian or a local pet club.
- Interview your potential pet-sitter with an eye to watching
their interaction with your pet(s). Observe what a potential sitter
does upon first entering your home. The potential sitter's
interaction with your pet at the 'interview' meeting is very
important. Watch to see if he or she pets your dog, ignores your
cat or scowls at your budgie. These first reactions can be a vital
sign to you as to how they will treat your pet while you are
away.
- Ask questions. You deserve to know the level of expertise and
enthusiasm of your pet-sitter. Some questions include:
- Have you done pet-sitting before? For what type of pets?
- Do you have other pets you are currently sitting?
- Do you have a set time for visiting pets that you care for?
(You need to know that they intend to be regular, punctual and
spend some time attending to your pet, especially for such pets as
cats and dogs who will require walking time, playtime and general
"keeping company" time to stave off loneliness etc.)
- Do you understand the dietary requirements of my pet(s)? (If
not, ascertain how diligent the sitter is about following written
instructions.)
- Ask for references. Quiz your potential sitter on other
pet-sitting stints. Ask her or him for telephone numbers or emails
if possible, you can contact these references and double-check on
the services.
- Observe your pet's reactions. After the sitter leaves, is your
pet happy? Agitated? Angry? Calm? Skittish? This will be more
obvious for some pets than others but if you know your pet well,
you will likely see any relevant signs.
- Test your own feelings. Did you gel with the sitter? Did you
get feelings that you could trust this person with your pet and
that the person came across as responsible and animal-loving? Trust
your instincts. If you are not pleased with what you saw or you
feel uncomfortable, keep looking.
- Agree on a fair price. This is not the time to haggle - be
aware of what the going rate is for pet-sitting in your area and be
prepared to pay it. Some pet sitters may charge more for quality
care. It is more important to get good care for your pet(s) than to
be seeking a bargain. In return, you can demand written
confirmation of obligations the pet-sitter mus
