How to Choose the Best Dog Sitter

How to Choose the Best Dog Sitter

Dogs are a huge part of our family, and we always try to ensure that they are in the best hands while we are away.  Doggie daycare works great for many dog parents, but it is not a viable option for all pet owners.  There will be times that you will need to go away for a trip, and you will need someone to take care of your four-legged friend(s).  Choosing the best fit can be a challenge, but we have some things that you can look for!

There are so many people who may be qualified to watch your dog.  This can be overwhelming at first .  However, you can follow these steps to narrow down your search:

  • Reviews are your best friend!  Carefully read the reviews of each sitter.  Ensure that the reviews are marked as “verified” so that they are legit.
  • If you have any concerns outside of reading the reviews, ask the sitter for some professional recommendations.
  • Set up a meet & greet to see how well your pet connects to the sitter.  Make sure that the sitter is qualified to handle your breed.
  • Make sure that the sitter has great lines of communication.  If requested, they should be willing to provide you with daily updates and photos of your dog to put you at ease.

Once you are comfortable choosing your new dog sitter, you will need to provide them with some information to make the most of your dog’s stay.  Provide the sitter with pet records, vaccinations, their daily routine (eating, playing, sleeping, etc.), emergency contact information, etc.. Also, keep in mind that some pet sitters can come to your house if that makes things more convenient.  Your dog will feel much more secure in their own space.