Pet sitting services are a big help when you need a hand in taking care of your pet. These ensure that your pet is safe while you are away. With pet sitters, your pet will be fed on time, and in some cases, also get proper medical attention. However, proper evaluation should be conducted before hiring a pet sitter. Here are some tips in evaluating potential pet sitters.
- Review the company background. It will be helpful to know some important information about the pet sitter’s agency or company. You may need to conduct some research to get the company history, licenses, training certificates and other documents that prove they are a legitimate business. You can check details online, or you may call the company directly for information. It is also best to check for reviews and testimonials about the company.
If you cannot find a trustworthy company, you may also get referrals from family and friends. Call people you know who have pets and ask for referrals. They might be able to refer you to a good pet sitter or agency. Call each referral and, if necessary, ask for a resume and schedule an interview.
- Review the pet sitter’s background. If you are in contact with a pet sitting company, ask for a list of pet sitters that you can choose from and request for a resume for each. This way you will be aware of each one’s expertise, and you will be able to choose the best pet sitter based on their qualifications. You need to pay particular attention to licenses, certificates and awards they have. You also need to know how long they have been handling animals, and the type of pets they have been able to take care of in the past.
If your pet is suffering from any illness and needs special care, you need to choose a pet sitter that has the experience in taking of animals with such conditions. You may also ask for medical training certificates or other proof of training to ensure that the pet sitter is qualified.
Narrow down your list and choose at least three candidates. Then, schedule an interview and check how your pet responds to each sitter. Remember, the pet sitter will eventually be a regular fixture in your household, so you need assurance that the person you hire will take care of your beloved pet and be a good member of the household as well. Trust and confidence are big factors.
- Review pet sitter and owner policies. It is best to review policies on accidents, liabilities and other rules involving care for your pet while at home. This is extremely important to ensure that you, your pet and your home are safe and secure against any problems or incidents that might arise.
Remember, hiring a pet sitter requires a thorough evaluation to ensure that your pet and your home will be safe while you’re away. Getting through this evaluation process may be challenging but it will all be worth it, if it’s the welfare of your family and pet at stake.