Top Tips for Choosing the Best Pet Sitting Service. Owning a pet is undoubtedly an enriching experience because of the unconditional love involved. It is understood that your pet will require regular care, no matter what type of pet it may be. The problem is that there are things that can get in the way. It could be some errands you need to do, or travel plans that have been pending for a while. It is not always possible to ignore such situations and your schedule can get in the way of taking care of your pet. What should you do? This modern-day dilemma can be resolved with licensed pet sitting services that exist these days.
These pet sitting services come with a curated pool of pet sitters that are both reliable and trustable. You will have plenty of options to explore when you have decided to find a pet sitter, but which one is best for you? As a pet parent, you are likely to have concerns and to put you at ease, here are some top tips that can help you select the most appropriate pet sitter for your furry little friend.
Assess your pet’s needs
First and foremost, before you go looking for a pet sitting service, you need to understand exactly what your pet needs. There are various factors that should be taken into consideration, such as the size, age, breed and temperament of your pet. You also need to take their medical conditions into account. Some pets require exercise and playtime, while there are also those that may need special care. When you understand your pet’s requirements, it will be easier to find a pet sitting service that can cater to your unique needs.
Ask for recommendations
There is no better way of finding the best pet sitting service that getting first-hand recommendations from your family and friends. You can reach out to fellow pet owners and ask them about the services they have used. Personal referrals can give valuable insights into the quality of care your pet is likely to get. Furthermore, you can also get in touch with local vets and animal shelters, or even pet groomers who will be able to recommend reputable pet sitting services.
Do online search
The next step is to do an online search for pet sitting services in your area. If you have already put together a list of options through recommendations, you should start looking for reviews. In this digital age, these reviews can offer you a wealth of information about pet sitting services. There are various platforms where you can find reviews, such as Google, Yelp and even pet-specific websites. You should check out both positive and negative feedback to understand the reliability and reputation of the pet sitting service.
Start conducting interviews
After you have narrowed down your list of options, it is time to start interviewing pet sitting services because this can assist you in assessing their suitability. The purpose of the interview is to give you a platform to ask the service questions. You need to discuss their experience and availability, the kind of pets they have cared for and the approach they use for handling emergencies. A good pet sitting service should be experienced and compassionate and should also be prepared to deal with any situation.
Ask for references
You should not hesitate in asking the pet sitting services for references. After all, you will be trusting them with your beloved pet and this is a responsibility you do not take lightly. Once they provide references, you should follow up and talk to previous clients to ask about the experience they have had. When you talk directly to past clients, you can gain valuable insights into the reliability and professionalism of the pet sitting service and the level of care they can offer.
Check their insurance and bonding
It is also recommended that you opt for a pet sitting service that is fully insured and bonded. It will give you peace of mind because it provides protection, not just for your pet, but also for your home and the sitter, in case there are any unforeseen events or accidents. A reputable pet sitting service will not have any issues in providing proof of insurance and bonding.
Ask about pet first aid knowledge
Ideally, you should choose a pet sitting service that has sitters with knowledge of pet first aid. Accidents can happen at any time and if the sitter is capable of responding to emergencies, then it can ensure your pet’s wellbeing and safety. Ensure that the pet sitting service has people who can handle emergencies properly.
Time for a meet and greet
Before you make a final decision, it is best to schedule a meet and greet between the potential sitter and your pet. You should observe how the sitter interacts with your pet and the latter’s response. If the two are able to establish a positive connection, it is definitely a good sign because it ensures that your pet will be content and comfortable in their care.
Consider pricing
Pet sitting services come with a price tag and many may find it to be quite hefty. However, you need to bear in mind that pricing can vary depending on the services you require, the duration and even on the type of pet you have. You can get a quote from several services and do a comparison to see which one offers the most value before making a decision.
Trust your instincts
Last, but certainly not the least, you need to trust your gut. Your intuition can prove to be a valuable tool when you are choosing a pet sitting service. If you have any reservations, or something does not feel right, you can explore other options. Bear in mind that your top (tips) priority should be your pet’s security and happiness and you should not compromise on it.
Armed with these top tips (top tips), every pet owner can choose the most suitable and reliable pet sitting service for their beloved companion.