When considering hiring a pet sitter or dog walker, you should think about these prior to the process.
Blue Chip Pet Care strives to go above and beyond to increase customer satisfaction. We bring a high level of professionalism and integrity to our work and understand the benefits of in home pet care. Use these tips as a map for hiring a pet sitter.
Looking to hire an independent pet sitter or dog walker: Do you know this person personally?
- When giving a person keys, alarm codes and other security sensitive information you want to make sure this person can be trusted. Consider running a background check if you do not know this person.
Calling on a pet sitting or dog walking company: If you left a message inquiring about services or sent an email how soon was the call returned?
- A quick response if a good sign. This is a good way to tell how serious you will be taken as a customer.
Independent or using a company: How much notice does the pet sitter need in order to schedule your request for a pet sitter?
- You are going to need to give an independent pet sitter or dog walker more notice, probably a week to two weeks because most of the time they are not pet sitting as a full time job. If using a company, if you need is filled swiftly you know the work is taken seriously and they have good systems in place to accommodate these needs.
Discuss the payment terms?
- Does the Independent Pet Sitter/Dog Walker or the Company have different options for payment? Most companies will have the ability to offer credit/debit card payment platforms but interdependent might need to work on a cash basis. This is something to consider if you do not typically keep cash on hand.
What about fees and services for pet care, can the pet sitter and dog walkers provide a quote?
- This is important to know what you are actually receiving. How long a pet sitter is staying with your pet and what is included with the visit. Make sure you and your pet professional are on the same page.
Make sure your pet sitter and or dog walker is bonded and insured?
- Ask for proof of coverage, this is extremely important for the 'accidental' situations that can arise.
Can he or she provide referrals?
- If the answer is no, we would put up a big red flag. Referrals are great way source if carried out. However, pay close attention to the referral because some states have policies and strict guidelines on giving negative referrals.
Does the pet sitter meet with you and your pet(s) in advance? Is there a charge for this meeting?
- Initial interviews allow the pet sitter to meet with you in your home, interact with your pets and discuss services and business policies. These visits are highly recommended for both the pet owner and the pet sitter. Some pet sitters off this service at no charge, while others charge a nominal fee for their time and travel expenses.
Does he or she have experience working with animals?
- This is an obvious but important, because working with animals is not for everyone. Sure their are millions of dog lovers out there, but not everyone can work with them day in and day out. So make sure, the person you are considering has some background with animals.
Does the pet sitter have a website that you may peruse or an online scheduling software?
- Today websites are a must, but make sure if choosing a company that they are active online. A company might use a website for advertising purposes but not actively monitor or update information. Also, a huge time save is a company that is using scheduling software. This gives you the ability to pay, schedule and view billing history. Some even allow a communication element so this provides a one stop shop for all business needs.
Is a system in place in the event of inclement weather or a natural disaster while caring for your pet(s)?
- This is important, if you are out of town and disaster or a large ice storm strikes, can this person get to your home? Ask he or she what would be the steps to make sure pets are cared for, when owners are out of town.
In the case of a medical emergency?
- Have he or she mentioned a vet? Companies as well as independent dog walkers and pet sitters handle this differently so just make a note to ask.
If using a pet sitting or dog walking company what is in place when hiring?
- Companies might use a background check, but their are multiple levels of checks so ask your provider what are steps taken to ensure a safe, reliable and professional service.
When considering in home pet services use this list as a map to help ensure satisfaction, safety and quality of service. A home and a pet can be among the most important things in your life and this list will help to avoid problems that could occur.
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