When you entrust the care of your furry best friend to another person it can feel like you’re handing over a piece of your heart. That’s why choosing the right pet sitter is an important decision for any pet owner. You want to make sure that your pet is in good hands which is why it is crucial to select a pet sitter who not only loves pets but also possesses the experience and skills to ensure your pet’s safety, happiness, and well-being.
Here are some things to look for when selecting a pet sitter:
1. Prioritize experience:
First and foremost, experience matters. You want a pet sitter who understands the needs and quirks of your particular pet. Whether you have a rambunctious Labrador, a shy Siamese cat, or a high maintenance chinchilla, look for a pet sitter who has experience caring for pets similar to yours. Ask for references and check for positive reviews from previous clients as these are an excellent indicator of the pet sitter’s capability.
Peak City Puppy Tip: Our team at Peak City Puppy has decades of collective experience in pet care. We’ve looked after a wide array of pets, from fish to reptiles to pigs, birds, and Chihuahuas to Great Danes. We have over 250 glowing 5-star reviews on Google as well, showcasing the trust and confidence our clients have in our care.
2. Check for certification and awards:
Certification is a clear sign that a pet sitter is committed to their profession. Certification ensures that the pet sitter has received proper training and adheres to industry standards. Awards are bonuses that others have seen the value in the pet sitters care as well.
Peak City Puppy Tip: At Peak City Puppy, we take professionalism seriously. We are members of Professional Pet Sitter’s International – the leading educational association for professional pet sitters. We have also been selected as the Best Pet Pampering Business over the last 3 years by Kerrie Living Magazine. When you choose us, you’re choosing trained professionals who understand the care, love, and attention your pet needs.
3. Ask about their specific services:
Every pet is different, and so are their needs. Ensure that the pet sitter you choose can cater to your pet’s unique requirements. Are they able to administer medications, provide the right level of exercise, and handle emergencies competently? Make sure their services align with your pet’s needs.
Peak City Puppy Tip: We offer a wide range of services, including dog walking, drop in pet sitting, in your home overnight pet sitting, and in a sitter’s home overnights. We customize our care plans to match your pet’s routines and preferences. You can relax knowing that your pet is receiving the exact care they need.
4. Schedule a meet and greet:
Schedule a meet and greet with your potential pet sitter before beginning services. Observe how the pet sitter interacts with your pet as well as their approach to caring for your pet and ask any questions you may have. This meeting is a great way to gauge if they’re a good fit for your furry companion.
Peak City Puppy Tip: Our initial meet and greet is a crucial part of our pet sitting process. In fact, services cannot begin unless a meet and greet is set up beforehand. We believe in forming a personal connection with you and your pet to ensure everyone feels comfortable before service begins. This is your opportunity to see for yourself how we bond with your furry family member.
5. Discuss communication and expectations:
Clear communication from the start is key to a successful pet sitter – pet owner relationship. Discuss your expectations with the pet sitter, including the feeding schedule, exercise routine, and any other special instructions. Make sure that the pet sitter you choose understands your pet’s needs and preferences as well as how often and for what reasons you would like to be contacted. Doing this proactively ensures there is no room for confusion when your services begin.
Peak City Puppy Tip: We make it a priority to keep the lines of communication open. Your pet’s well-being is our top concern, and we take your instructions to heart. Using a state-of-the-art pet portal, you can message your pet sitter at any time as well as receive a notification when your sitter arrives, GPS tracking, an after-visit summary, and the best part – photos and videos of your sweet pet!
6. Check their insurance:
While we like to envision an emergency will never occur the reality is emergencies can happen, and it’s vital that your pet sitter is prepared. Verify that your chosen pet sitter has liability insurance to cover any accidents or incidents that might occur while your pet is under their care.
Peak City Puppy Tip: Rest assured, each of our team members is fully insured with liability insurance. We take responsibility for the well-being of your pet and any accidents and have measures in place to handle any unforeseen situations with care and professionalism. ex: a sitter knocks over a ladder in the garage on their way out for a walk and damages your car – we will cover the damages.
7. Trust your instincts:
Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, trust your gut. Your intuition is a valuable tool when selecting a pet sitter. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to explore other options. Your pet’s happiness and well-being depend on it.
Peak City Puppy Tip: We believe in building trust, not just with your pets but with you as well. Our transparent and reliable service is designed to give you the confidence that your pet is in capable hands. We hope that nothing ever feels “off” to you but if something doesn’t feel right, please don’t ever hesitate to reach out either to your sitter or one of our awesome members of the administrative team and we will discuss the best course of action for your concerns.
Choosing the right pet sitter is more than just a task – it’s an investment in your pet’s happiness and security. When you prioritize experience, certification, tailored services, personal connection, clear communication, insurance, and your own instincts, you ensure that your pet is well-cared for while you’re away.
When you partner with Peak City Puppy, you’re choosing a team that embodies all of these principles. With our seasoned professionals, certified expertise, personalized care, and comprehensive insurance, we make it our mission to care for your pet just like you would. So, why worry? Leave your beloved furry friend with us and enjoy your time away, knowing they are in good hands.
