While you’re away on vacation, you don’t want to cause your dog any unnecessary stress. So, you may opt to partner with a dogsitter rather than leave your pet at a kennel. However, finding the ideal sitter is no easy feat. In this blog post, we’ll walk through how to find the best sitter for your dog, so you can enjoy your travels without worrying.
1. Ask for Referrals from Reputable Organizations
When beginning your search for a reputable dogsitter, begin with a referral or recommendation by asking a veterinarian, neighbor, friend, animal shelter, or trainer. You can also look at listings from Pet Sitters International (800-268-SITS) or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (800-296-PETS). Both organizations offer pet-sitting accreditation to those who can prove professional experience, finish home study pet care courses, and adhere to the organizations’ code of ethics.
You can also visit websites with user reviews and feedback like Care.com and DogVacay.com, both of which require a paid membership and contain loads of reviews from other pet parents.
Many professional pet sitters have certificates that mean they have gone through training and accreditation with a trusted source, such as NAPPs, Certified Pet Expert, or CPPS. In addition, many pet sitters also have other documentation of their experience in several pet healthcare fields such as training, grooming, and nutrition.
2. Consider Your Geographical Location
Having your sitter travel less for their sit is always preferable since it is likely to cost less and is more convenient. Some sitters charge by the distance traveled to your home, and in the event of an emergency, you might need someone who can get to your home quickly.
Some websites like Rover.com, Care.com, and DogVacay.com allow you to filter out sitters that are located within close physical distance.
3. Find Local Businesses with Sitting Services
Local businesses like groomers and even some reputable shelters often have a team that also offers pet sitting services. These are professional pet care providers and are likely to be trustworthy with your beloved pets. Be sure to check plenty of reviews and recommendations from others, especially if you are using their service for the first time.
A local business will most likely have an owner or manager who will take personal responsibility for your pet, functioning as the main point of contact for any issues. They will likely have reliable policies and procedures in place and be able to deal with whatever situation that may arise.
4. Meet a Potential Dogsitter in Person
The best thing to do is have your sitter meet your dog. After all, it is crucial that they get along and vibe. You can schedule a play season or walk to formally introduce the two. Also, you should have a communicative sitter who agrees to send you regular photos and updates about how your dog is doing.
Also, check whether they understand doggy first aid or have the knowledge to deal with basic health concerns, such as vomiting. Ideally, your dog sitter should also understand when it is time to take your pooch to a veterinarian.
5. Prepare Questions to Ask a Sitter
You can prepare a bunch of questions to ask your pet sitter. Most won’t mind being interrogated, it is part and parcel of the job and after all, you are leaving your precious pooch’s life in their hands.
Some questions to ask include:
- What sort of formal dog experience or training do you have?
- How many times will you walk my dog a day, and for how long?
- What dog care training do you have, and what illnesses and emergency situations are you familiar with?
- Are you okay with keeping my dog on the leash 100% of the time?
- Do you have pet insurance with a policy that extends to my dog? (This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it is a good thing to have.)
- Do you have access to safe transportation to take care of my dog, even in inclement weather? The last thing you want is for your sitter to be snowed in and unable to get to your dog.
- If you cannot make it to my dog, what is your plan B?
- Where do you intend to walk my dog?
Don’t Give Up on Finding a Dogsitter!
Being away from your dog is a harrowing enough experience, and to have a stranger look after your pooch can be even more stressful. By doing extensive research and doing your homework, you can ensure your dog is well-loved and looked after in your absence, leaving you free and easy to enjoy your vacay. Good luck!
