10 tips for keeping a great pet sitter

So, you’ve found the perfect pet sitter. The pets are happy, you are happy, but what about the sitter? These little extras will help you create a positive relationship with her,

Your pet sitter needs to bring clothes and toiletries. Leave some drawer and closet space for them to use. Especially for long sits, it is difficult living out of a suitcase.
Find out what food they enjoy - especially the heavy ones like milk (I’m vegan, so I’m grateful when people leave some oat milk for me), soda, juice, sauces, anything that would be hard to carry.
Tell her which of your foods she can use. Leave some fridge space available.
Make sure to finalize payment arrangements either when you book or before you leave. Pay promptly - remember she depends on this money.
Think about giving her a tip, especially if she leaves your home extra clean, does the laundry, takes care of plants or goes above and beyond to care for your fur family.
Book well in advance, so she has time to schedule you. Last minute sits are great, but you run the risk of not being accommodated.
If you need to cancel close to the scheduled sit, think about paying her. It is very difficult to schedule other clients at short notice. Please remember that pet sitters may need the money you provide in order to live and if they were planning on payment, it may upset their lives.
Make sure to leave detailed care information for each companion. Extra information like special toys, things that might scare them or special treats, quirks are good to know. Be sure to mention leash aggression. When owners haven’t told me, I have been pulled off my feet by large dogs. If your dog takes off after squirrels and bunnies, let her know.
Be compassionately honest if she does something wrong. Good feedback helps sitters improve. If it is something relatively small consider giving her a second chance.
For a sitter you use regularly, cosider a Holiday Thank You Bonus. On the East Coast, especially in cities, Holiday Bonuses are usually given to all service people. Believe, me it will be greatly appreciated.

If you have any things you do for your pet sitter? Let me know!