01/04/2024
While using an app to find a pet sitter or dog walker may seem like a quick, convenient way to secure pet care, Pet Sitters International encourages pet parents to seek out the services of a ⭐locally owned, professional pet-sitting or dog-walking business.⭐
PSI offers these tips for pet parents looking for a professional pet-sitting or dog-walking service:
1️⃣ Don’t prioritize convenience over quality. 👉Pet parents should not let click-and-select convenience of online sites overshadow the importance of due diligence when selecting a pet sitter or dog walker. Any pet lover can post their services online for a cheap price, but professional pet-care providers will have the training, credentials and insurance coverage needed to provide excellent pet care and protect clients and their homes.
2️⃣ Be specific about your needs. 👉Professional pet sitters and dog walkers typically have a variety of available service options, so be upfront about your schedule and your needs, whether those include daily dog walks, enrichment visits for your cat, daily potty breaks for a new puppy, or occasional visits due to your hybrid-work schedule. Many pet sitters and dog walkers offer package options for pet parents who need regular visits each week and some even provide activities like hiking excursions for more active dog breeds.
3️⃣ Meet the pet sitter in person first. 👉PSI always recommends pet parents schedule an initial consultation or “meet and greet” at their home—with pets present—before booking pet-care services. This allows the pet parent to meet the pet sitter and see them interact with their pets; review the sitter’s services, credentials and business practices; and make sure they are the best fit for their family.
4️⃣ Ask the right questions. 👉Pet parents can download a free pet-sitter interview checklist from PSI at www.petsit.com/locate. This checklist includes seven important questions you should ask any pet sitter or dog walker that you are considering hiring.
