Choosing the Right Pet Sitter: Trusted Care for Your Pets While You’re Away

Some people have a friend stay with their pets. Others have the kid down the street check in, while others hire a professional. There are a lot of options. Which is the right one?

Last week, Pamela at Something Wagging This Way Comes shared a tongue-in-cheek post called Top 10 Traits of a Pet Sitter Who Won’t Kill Your Dog. She took a humorous look at the topic but cited some heart-wrenching examples to illustrate the importance of finding the right pet sitter.

It came at the perfect moment: That very day, a husband and wife team of pet sitters came by to meet the boys and talk about their experience.

It’s going to work out with these pet sitters for days when we’re away, though they don’t offer overnight care, so we’re still going to need to find another solution. Possibly a boarding place in New Orleans… TBD…

When I shared Pamela’s post on Facebook, it sparked a good discussion, though I was saddened to hear how many people have horror stories from pet sitters! Our pet sitter in Bloomington, Ann of Bloomington Pet Pals, offered a few really valuable suggestions, which I wanted to share here. Ann wrote:

• They should have a federal tax ID number which just means they pay taxes as a business. They should also carry liability insurance which protects your pets and property. Ask to see proof of their insurance and what it covers – see if it covers transporting your pet b/c that’s a special provision you have to add. Ask if they have had any claims. Ask to see proof of their bond. If they don’t carry liability insurance and a bond, look for someone else.
• Ask if the person you meet is going to be the only one doing the sitting. Many times, you meet the owner of the company but they may use others to do the job, which isn’t necessarily bad, but you should know.
• Ask if everyone who works for them is covered by their insurance or bond.
• Your sitter should be in communication with you daily (at least) while you are away – via text or email. They should send photos. If you know your neighbors ask them to watch for the sitter and notice how long the person stays – are they in and out in 5 minutes or do they stay the length of time they say they will?

Such great advice. While you can’t predict or prevent every problem, doing your due diligence is critical when it comes to finding someone to take care of your fur babies!

Who takes care of your pet when you’re away? Do you hire a pet sitter? Go to a kennel? Any other advice to share with someone who’s considering a pet sitter?