How to Find the Perfect Pet Sitter: 7 Key Questions to Ask Before You Book
Planning a getaway? While you’re packing your bags and dreaming of sandy beaches (or a cozy mountain cabin), there’s one crucial thing you can’t forget: finding the perfect pet sitter. Let’s face it, our furry friends are family, and leaving them behind can tug at our hearts. But with the right pet sitter, you’ll feel confident knowing your dog is in good hands.
So how do you find the right pet sitter? I’ve got you covered! Here are 7 key questions to ask before booking, ensuring that both you and your pet can relax while you’re away.
1. What Experience Do You Have with Pets Like Mine?
- “Have you taken care of a dog with similar energy levels or needs as mine?”
- “What’s your experience with dogs who need medication, have special diets, or are super picky about their favorite napping spot?”
2. Do You Offer Check-Ins (and Can You Snap a Few Pix While You’re At It)?
Who doesn’t want to see cute pictures of their fur baby while sipping a cocktail poolside? Regular updates, including photos or videos, can make the separation a little easier. Plus, it reassures you that your pet is doing just fine without you (even if you’re slightly offended by how happy they look).
Why it’s important: Frequent check-ins keep you in the loop and give peace of mind. Whether it’s a quick text or a snap of your dog lounging on the couch, it helps to know everything’s okay.
Example from my experience: I always ask for daily photos and updates when I’m traveling. There’s nothing more comforting than a picture of my pup, snuggled up with her blanket, completely oblivious to the fact that I’ve left town.
Lighthearted Tip: Make sure the sitter knows your dog’s best angles. No one wants a blurry picture of Fido mid-zoomies. A pet sitter who can double as a doggy photographer? Now, that’s service!
What to ask:
- “How often do you send updates?”
- “Can you take a few photos or videos during check-ins?”
3. What’s Your Availability for Pick-Up, Drop-Off, and Last-Minute Changes?
Who doesn’t want to see cute pictures of their fur baby while sipping a cocktail poolside? Regular updates, including photos or videos, can make the separation a little easier. Plus, it reassures you that your pet is doing just fine without you (even if you’re slightly offended by how happy they look).
Why it’s important: Frequent check-ins keep you in the loop and give peace of mind. Whether it’s a quick text or a snap of your dog lounging on the couch, it helps to know everything’s okay.
4. Can You Stick to My Pet’s Routine (Especially Their Quirky Preferences)?
Dogs are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in their routine can cause stress. Whether it’s feeding times, walks, or where they sleep, your sitter should be able to keep things as familiar as possible.
Why it’s important: A consistent routine helps your pet feel secure when you’re not there. Feeding schedules, walking routines, and even napping habits should stay the same.
- “Can you stick to my pet’s regular feeding and sleeping schedule?”
- “Will you be able to accommodate special requests, like a favorite blanket or toy?”
5. What’s Your Approach to Exercise and Playtime?
For many dogs, regular exercise is as important as food and water. Ask how often your dog will be walked and whether they’ll have plenty of opportunities to burn off energy. For high-energy breeds, playtime is non-negotiable.
Why it’s important: Lack of exercise can lead to boredom, anxiety, or destructive behavior. Your sitter should make sure your pet gets plenty of activity, whether that’s daily walks, playtime in the yard, or even a game of fetch.
Example from my experience: My dog needs a solid walk every day to keep her from bouncing off the walls. A sitter who takes her out for regular walks, and maybe throws in a game of fetch, keeps her happy and out of mischief.
Lighthearted Tip: Ask if they know how to throw a Frisbee or if they’re up for a rousing game of tug-of-war. It’s all fun and games until your dog decides they’re winning, no matter what.
What to ask:
- “How many walks do you offer per day?”
- “What kind of playtime activities do you include?”
6. How Do You Handle Health Issues and Emergencies?
This is probably the most important question of all. While you hope everything will go smoothly, it’s always better to be prepared. Ask the sitter how they handle emergencies, whether they can take your dog to the vet, and if they’re comfortable administering medication.
Why it’s important: In case of an emergency, you want to know your sitter can react quickly and appropriately. Make sure they have your vet’s contact info and a plan in place if something goes wrong.
- “Are you comfortable administering medication or dealing with health issues?”
- “What’s your emergency plan if something happens while I’m away?”
7. What’s Your Policy on Feeding and Treats?
This may seem like a small detail, but trust me, it’s not. Some dogs have strict dietary restrictions, while others will eat anything that resembles food (even if it’s not). You want to be sure your sitter knows exactly what your dog can and can’t eat.
Why it’s important: A sudden change in diet—or too many treats—can lead to digestive problems or worse. Make sure the sitter knows your dog’s feeding routine, portion sizes, and any restrictions (looking at you, table scraps!).
Example from my experience: My dog is on a grain-free diet, and if she gets the wrong treats, we’ll all regret it. I always provide a list of what she can eat, along with her favorite (approved) snacks.
Lighthearted Tip: Make sure they know which treats your dog loves—and which ones they’ll spit out like a toddler refusing broccoli. No one wants a dog pouting over a sub-par snack selection.
What to ask:
- “Do you follow strict feeding schedules, and can you avoid giving my dog certain foods?”
- “How many treats are too many treats?” (Because we all know dogs are expert guilt-trippers!)
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Ideal Pet Sitter
Finding the right pet sitter isn’t just about availability—it’s about trust, reliability, and knowing your furry friend is in good hands. By asking the right questions, you can make sure that your dog is not only well-cared-for but also enjoying themselves while you’re away. Whether it’s sticking to a feeding routine, keeping them active, or just snapping a few adorable pictures, a great pet sitter can give you peace of mind on your travels.
And while you’re taking care of the sitter, don’t forget about taking care of your yard, too! Clean yards make for happy dogs (and happy owners), especially when you come back from vacation.
