1. Experience with Your Type of Pet
- Ensure they’ve worked with your pet’s species and breed before (e.g., cats, dogs, exotic pets).
- Ask about specific experience with pets that need medications, senior pets, or those with special needs.
🐕 Why it matters: Not all sitters are comfortable with administering meds or handling behavioral quirks.
2. Reliable References and Reviews
- Look for reviews on platforms like Rover, PetSitter.com, or social media.
- Ask for contact info for a few past clients who can vouch for them.
📝 Red flag: Vague or overly generic praise with no specifics.
3. Certifications and Insurance
- Pet CPR and First Aid certification is a huge plus.
- Professional pet sitters may carry liability insurance or be bonded.
🛡️ Added peace of mind in case of accidents or emergencies.
4. Clear Communication Skills
- They should be responsive, ask thoughtful questions, and offer regular updates (photos, messages).
- Clarify how often they’ll check in and how they’ll reach you if there’s an issue.
📱 A good sitter keeps you in the loop without being asked.
5. Comfort and Chemistry with Your Pet
- Schedule a meet-and-greet beforehand.
- Watch how your pet responds—do they seem relaxed? Does the sitter handle them gently and confidently?
🐾 Trust your instincts here—pets pick up on vibes quickly!
Bonus: Services and Availability
- Do they offer overnight stays, multiple visits per day, dog walking, or grooming?
- Are they available over holidays, weekends, or last-minute bookings?
📅 Get all expectations in writing so there are no surprises.