Questions to Ask Your Pet Sitter

Asking the right questions ensures your pet receives the best care while you're away. Here’s a list of essential questions to ask your Pet Sitter before booking.

Instructions

1. Experience and Qualifications. Ask about their experience with pets similar to yours and any relevant certifications, such as pet first aid.
2. Daily Routine and Care Approach. Clarify how they plan to handle feeding, exercise, and any special routines your pet requires.
3. Emergency Procedures. Find out how they would handle emergencies and whether they have access to a local vet.
4. Communication Preferences. Discuss how often and through which method (text, call, photos) you’ll receive updates about your pet.
5. Home Security and Key Handling. Ask how they manage home access securely and if they’re comfortable using a lockbox or key exchange service.
6. Behavioural Issues and Training. Inquire about their experience managing behavioural challenges like anxiety, aggression, or leash pulling.
7. Availability and Backup Plans. Confirm their availability for the entire period and whether they have a backup sitter in case of emergencies.

Related Articles

• Pet Sitter Safety Tips
• How Does Mad Paws Verify Their Pet Sitters?
• Understanding the Role of Pet Sitters for Each Service Offered on Mad Paws

FAQs and Tips

FAQs

• Do I need to provide supplies for my Pet Sitter?

  Yes, ensure they have access to everything your pet needs, including food, medications, and leashes.

• What if the sitter cancels last minute?

  Mad Paws offers support to help you find a replacement quickly, but confirming your sitter’s backup plan is always a good idea.

Tips

• Prepare a written care guide for your sitter covering routines, dietary restrictions, and emergency contacts.
• Trust your instincts during the meet and greet—choose a sitter who connects well with your pet.
• Discuss any house rules, like areas your pet is allowed or off-limits, to avoid misunderstandings.