As much as we adore our pets, there are times when we need to leave them in someone else’s care. Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a long work trip, finding the right pet sitter is essential for ensuring your pet’s happiness and safety. In this blog post, we’ll explore why opting for a professional pet sitter over hobbyists is the best choice for your pets.
Why Choose a Professional Pet Sitter?
First, let’s talk about why professional pet sitters are worth their weight in gold. Unlike hobbyists or well-meaning friends, professional pet sitters carry liability insurance and are trained and experienced in handling a variety of pets and situations. They understand animal behavior, know how to handle emergencies, and are committed to providing top-notch care. There are so many details and moving parts to caring for pets. It’s so much more than throwing down some food & water.
What to Look for in a Professional Pet Sitter
- Business Entity: Find out if they are registered with the State and running a legitimate business? Do some research — like a Google search. Do they have a website outlining their services & rates?
- Certifications and Training: Look for pet sitters who have undergone professional training and in pet care, including pet first aid and CPR. This ensures they have the knowledge and skills to handle any situation that may arise.
- References and Reviews: Don’t hesitate to ask for references or read online reviews from previous clients. Hearing about other pet owners’ experiences can give you valuable insight into the pet sitter’s reliability and quality of care. Google reviews are great and can’t be faked like website reviews!
- Contract: Be sure to ask the sitter if they use a contract. This is paramount. Contracts are essential for outlining expectations and ensuring everyone’s on the same page.
- Bonded and Insured: Professional pet sitters are, at a minimum, insured but also can be bonded. This provides an extra layer of protection for you and your pet in case of accidents or mishaps.
- Communication: A professional pet sitter will maintain open and transparent communication with you BEFORE you leave and while you’re away. They should provide regular updates and be reachable in case of emergencies. Many professional pet sitters, like me, use scheduling software like Time To Pet which includes a convenient mobile app for booking, payments & communication.
Why It’s Important
Choosing a professional pet sitter ensures the safety and well-being of your pets and your home. Professional pet sitters are equipped to handle various situations, from administering medication to dealing with behavioral or health issues. They provide quality, personalized care tailored to your pet’s specific needs, ensuring they feel comfortable and loved while you’re away.
Why Gig Workers Are Not a Safe Choice for Your Pet
While gig workers may offer affordable rates, they often lack the necessary training and experience to properly care for your pet. Additionally, their availability may be unreliable, leaving you in a bind if they cancel last minute. When the teen down the street decides she wants to hang out with her friends and waits 12 hours in between visits, who suffers? Your pets do!
I’ve often had new clients reach out to me after using a hobby sitter from one of the directory platforms such as R*ver after the sitter didn’t show up to care for their pets or left their home in shambles. One sitter didn’t show up for 2 weeks and all of the client’s birds had passed away. So sad. I never suggest using any of these directory companies. They do not screen the sitters well enough and are constantly in the news for pet neglect, theft of pets and property, etc. When it comes to your pet’s safety, it’s worth investing in a professional pet sitter who is dedicated to providing the highest level of care. You get what you pay for.
In conclusion, choosing a professional pet sitter over hobbyists or gig workers is the best decision you can make for your pet. By prioritizing their safety and well-being, you can enjoy your time away with peace of mind knowing that your pet is in capable and loving hands.
So, before your next trip, take the time to find a reputable professional pet sitter who will treat your pet like family. After all, your pet deserves nothing but the best, right?
