Choosing a pet sitter can be a timely and difficult process. With a wide selection of pet sitters available through a number of platforms, it can be difficult to make sure you are making the best choice for your pet. When looking through the pet sitters available in your area, consider the following questions to ensure that your pet(s) will get the safest and best-quality care available:

1. Does the pet sitter offer in-home consultations before accepting a job?

An in-home consultation, or “meet-and-greet”, is a wonderful opportunity to communicate with a potential sitter about their experience, availability, and other questions you may have. It is also a great opportunity to determine if the sitter and your pet(s) are compatible. Think of an in-home consultation as an interview for both the pet owner and pet sitter; both parties should feel comfortable before moving forward with any formal agreements.

2. Is the pet sitter licensed and insured?

It’s a good idea to make sure that any pet sitter you are hiring carries liability insurance to cover unexpected accidents that occur while you are away.

3. What is the pet sitter’s availability?

Many sitters available through platforms like Rover and Care.com do not provide pet care full-time. Instead, they may only be available when they are not working their regular job, limiting when they can check in on your pet(s). Choosing a professional pet sitter that has open availability ensures that they can be available when you need them.

4. What training and experience does the pet sitter have?

Your pet sitter should have experience with animals prior to you hiring them. In addition, they should have knowledge of basic pet first aid training so they can recognize any medical issues your pet(s) may experience while you are away.

5. How will the pet sitter communicate with you while on the job? 

Knowing ahead of time how, and how often, a potential pet sitter will send you updates will help set your mind at ease while you are away. Make sure that your pet sitter has a reliable way of communicating with you before you book with them.

6. Does the pet sitter have references?

Many professional sitters include client testimonials on their websites, and can provide a list of references for you to contact when asked. Google and/or Facebook reviews can also be a source of honest, helpful information about a pet sitting service.

7. Does the pet sitter have a pet services contract or agreement?

A contract, agreement, and/or invoice that outlines the details of the service should be provided by the sitter. It should include all agreed-upon fees, along with the type of service the sitter is being hired for. This ensures that both you and the pet sitter have the same information, and know what to expect in regards to service.

Getting answers to these seven questions is a great first step when hiring a pet sitter. Though it may take some extra time to research potential pet-sitting services, it is time well spent in ensuring that you pet will receive the highest level of care while you are away.