Tips for Finding a Dog Sitter

Finding a trusted dog sitter can be a daunting and difficult task, especially for new pet parents. Here are some tips for finding the perfect pet-sitter for your furry friend:

Ask Your Veterinarian

Your vet should be your go-to resource for all things dog-related, and that doesn’t stop when it comes to dog-sitting! Think of all of the concerned pet parents that have come to your vet before you. Your vet will surely have some recommendations, but if not, they’ll at least be able to steer you in the right direction. Ask them if they know of any trusted pet-sitters in your area.

Make a List of Necessary Qualifications

To help your search for the perfect pet-sitter, it’s a good idea to know what qualifications your dog-sitter should have before you start looking. This will help you easily decide who is qualified and who isn’t. Need help deciding on which qualifications you really need fulfilled? Try looking at the Humane Society’s website for some helpful qualifications that dog-sitters should have.

Ask Around

One of the most helpful resources in finding a new dog-sitter are your connections! Ask other dog-owners in your area what their experiences have been like with different dog-sitters. They’ll be able to provide helpful feedback on different dog-sitters and they may have some helpful insight on how to choose a good sitter. Dog-owners are always happy to help each other out, so don’t be shy!

Choose Someone Who Is Certified

If you don’t feel comfortable using personal recommendations, you can also contact either the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International to try to find a certified pet sitter that works for you. These pet sitters are dedicated and reputable, and are sure to take excellent care of your precious pup. When in doubt, choosing someone who is certified is always a safe bet for picking a dog-sitter.

Test Them Out With Your Dog

At the end of the day, the best judge of a good dog-sitter is your dog! Ask your pet-sitter if they are willing to do a “test-run” with your canine companion to see if they make a good match. If your dog doesn’t get along well with the sitter, you’ll know to move on to other candidates. You never want to put your dog in a situation that they’ll be uncomfortable in, so testing out pet-sitters is a great way to let your dog do the choosing.

Choosing a dog-sitter doesn’t have to be an impossible task! Try out these tips and good luck on your hunt for the perfect pet-sitter.