So you’ve added a new furry member to your family and need someone to help you take them outside or keep them company while you are unable to do so yourself? Or you are planning a long awaited vacation where your pets are not invited? Time to call a pet sitter or dog walker, but first do a little research to make sure you hire a true professional who will serve both your needs and your pet’s.
In (5) steps you could have a great professional to take loving care of your pets!
Step 1: Ask friends, neighbors, and pet professionals like vets to recommend professional pet sitters / dog walkers. Referrals from trusted sources are the best way to come across any professional that you may want to hire. This is especially true with dog walkers and pet sitters because they are usually going to be doing their job without you around to supervise. A trusted source can give you specifics about why they recommend their pet sitter or dog walker.
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Many people will just do an internet search for a pet sitter in their area. This is a convenient way to acquire one. But since pet sitting is an unregulated profession you should be diligent about checking out a pet sitter or dog walker and their company’s policies, philosophies, and references.
Step 2: Once you get their website and/or phone number you can do more research. Check out the website or call them directly to see what kind of pet care they offer. Find out if they follow any ethical code of behavior in handling pets. What is their personal and professional experience with pet sitting or dog walking? What are their rates? Are they insured and bonded? Finally, do they service your area? If you agree with their methods and the services offered fit your needs you can ask them if they have references for you to check. If they supply those to you then you’re ready for the next step.
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Step 3: Call the references and ask if they were satisfied with their pet sitter’s/dog walker’s services and if they would hire them again. If those references pan out you are already up to the next step.
Step 4: Call the good candidates back and ask them to come over and meet you and your pets. When the potential pet sitter arrives take note of your first impressions of them. They should be on time and neatly dressed. Are they sociable and comfortable with your pets? Find out what, if any, paper work you need to fill out. What is their emergency plan in case they can’t make an appointment? Agree upon what services they will provide and how they will handle the behavior difficulties and little idiosyncrasies that your pet may have. Get a feel for how well they accept your rules for handling and caring for your pets. Do they have first aid training or at least good common sense to deal with an emergency? Inform them what freedoms they have in your house like bathroom or kitchen use. Supply them with emergency information like your vet’s and your contact information.
Step 5: Pick your pet’s sitter or dog walker. Choose the one that makes you and your pet the most comfortable, has great references, and is responsible.
By Arlene O'Connor of Cuddles and Purrs Dog Walking and Pet Care www.cuddlesandpurrs.com
