4 Tips For Finding A Dog Sitter

Finding a dog sitter can be a tough task for dog owners. Naturally, caring pet owners want to ensure their canine companions receive the best care while they are separated. Whether planning a vacation, going into the office, or needing occasional help, finding a reliable and trustworthy dog sitter is important for your peace of mind and your pup’s well-being. We’ve got some tips to help you navigate finding a dog sitter who meets your standards and fits into your routine.

1. Ask For Dog Sitter Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a dog sitter is to ask for recommendations from family, friends, neighbors, or fellow Alliance of Therapy Dog members! Reaching out to your personal network can be valuable and offer insights to pet sitters who have proven themselves to be reliable. You can also reach out to your broader network by posting on your social media, letting people know you are looking for a recommended dog sitter.

But, before hiring a dog sitter, check reviews and references for favorable candidates. Positive feedback and testimonials can provide confidence that you are picking the right person for the job.

2. Meet and Interview Dog Sitters

Once you have narrowed down your dog sitter search to the top candidates, you can schedule a time to meet and interview them. It can be insightful to see the candidate interact with your dog. You can facilitate this by asking them to join you on a walk with your dog or inviting them to your home for a meet-and-greet. Use this opportunity to ask about their dog-sitting experience, their availability, and if they have any certifications or liability insurance coverage. If your dog sitter provides proof of insurance coverage, this is a good sign that they are reputable. Remember to mention if your dog has dietary needs or medical conditions.

You must be clear about your expectations so you can help set your sitter up for success. For instance, if you need a dog sitter to stay at your place for the whole duration of your trip, or if you need them to pop in twice a day, let the sitter know what you are looking for. This way they can also decide if they are the right fit. Lastly, don’t be afraid to discuss compensation. This will be an important topic to both you and the candidate, which could make or break the outcome.

3. Try A Trial Run

Now, it’s time for a trial run with the chosen dog sitter. Depending on your comfort level, you can leave the sitter alone with your dog for a few hours or you can be present but let the sitter take care of feeding, grooming, walking, and playing. If you choose to be around for the trial run, pay attention to how the sitter acts around your dog and if your dog seems comfortable around them. If your dog shows signs of distress and anxiety, you may have to try a different approach or a different sitter. You can also have more than one trial run. The more your dog bonds with the sitter, the better.

After the trial run, take some time to reflect on the experience. Does the dog sitter align with your expectations and does your dog like them? After all, your dog is your best friend and your furry bff deserves the best care.

4. Provide Clear Instructions Before You Leave

While this step should be done in the trial run as well, it is especially important when you leave for an extended period. By providing clear instructions you can make the experience more seamless for your dog sitter and your pup. Write or type up instructions and place them where your sitter can easily see the information.

You’ll want to include these details: