Finding the right pet sitter for you!
Do your research!
When you are looking for a pet sitter you want someone reliable, humane and trustworthy.My services fall into the concierge category. But there are other levels of care that might fit your situation better. Finding someone can be frustrating - I hope this will make it easier!
I've worked for 40 years with and for companion animals. But when it came to my own companions I was just as neurotic as most people. One of the most stressful experiences was finding a reliable person to care for my pets. My first dog had a heart condition, so for 5 years my husband and I never traveled together unless we could take our dog. When I began my consulting and training company, I was required to travel. Sometimes we both had to travel at the same time. I was lucky enough to find someone wonderful to stay with my two dogs and six cats.
Depending on luck isn't the most prudent approach to finding someone to care for your companions. Recently, in the news, an owner returned to find half-naked men on her couch, a video camera and lots of lubricant on the coffee table. Yuck! Others have experienced pet sitters cancelling at the last minute, having visitors, leaving pets for long periods of time, losing pets and leaving the house dirty or in disarray. A friend’s dog was left for eight hours in a crate!
America is in love with its dogs and cats. Seven out of 10 Millennials have companion animals. 81% of pet owners think of their companions as a member of the family. These companion animals provide a link to the natural world. They give us love and connection. But when it comes to leaving their home and pets in the care of a pet sitter, most folks depend on written references or word of mouth. As for depending on your pets to give a review, they will be happy just to see you come home. They can't speak about the care they received. Some pet owners trust for-profit brokers to do the checking for them. Just depending on the internet to find someone can be a mistake. Pet sitters' experience and education is self reported and varies widely - from the kid down the street to professional pet nannies. So, how do you find the right person?
Require a pre-visit to find out if the person is a fit. Interview 2-3 providers before you make a choice. Watch their interaction with your fur babies. Do they rush the animals or let them approach in their own time? Is there a rapport created? Does the person know about pet behavior, as well as pet care?
Have a written list of questions about their experience and background. Ask about other commitments like work, family, school, pets and social engagements. How long will the pet(s) be left alone? Will they accommodate special care and needs? Ask about emergencies they have handled. Do they drink or smoke drugs?
Speak personally with references. Anyone can write glowing recommendations, but a conversation may bring out issues. This also makes sure references are current and real.
Trust your feelings. If it feels weird or uncomfortable don't hire them. Even if you feel good about them, nanny cams are a good idea. Just make sure to tell the sitter that they may be on camera!
Try a test run. Have them come babysit for an evening or, even better, try an overnight.
You get what you pay for. Price should not be the main consideration in hiring a care giver. What would you expect to pay for a care giver for your children or elderly family member? Are your companions really like family?
Any questions?
Just fill out the contact sheet and I’ll get back to you!