With the influx of pet-care directory sites popping up in the last couple of years and news stories touting pet sitting as an easy way to earn extra cash, more and more people are deciding to cash in on the growing need for pet care. However, not everyone that refers to themselves as a “pet sitter” is a professional.
“Simply being listed on an online pet-sitter listing—or even on a nationally-publicized directory—does not make a pet sitter a professional, qualified care provider,” explains PSI President Patti J. Moran. “Anyone can post a profile advertising pet-sitting services, so it’s important for pet owners to take a closer look to ensure they are hiring a real pet sitter.”
“Often times, pet owners, and even news outlets, use the term ‘pet sitter’ carelessly, referring to anyone—from a family friend to the neighborhood teenager asked to walk a dog—as a ‘pet sitter,’” explains Moran. “It is important
So, who should you choose to care for your pets?
The following infographic from Pet Sitters International best explains the differences between a professional pet sitter vs. a hobby pet sitter.
Oftentimes, term ‘pet sitter’ is used carelessly, referring to anyone – from a family friend, to the neighborhood teenager asked to walk a dog – as a “pet sitter,” but it’s important that you understand pet sitting is a professional career, and professional pet sitters offer peace of mind that other pet-care options cannot.
While it may be tempting to save money by hiring a neighbor, family member, or someone who has listed a free profile on a “pet sitter” site, isn’t your peace of mind and your pet’s health worth more?
Would one of these individuals be able to spot possible early signs of renal failure in your senior cat and rush him to the vet while you
Would any of these “pet sitters” know how to respond if they entered your home to find a broken window, open door,
Would any of these hired “pet sitters” rush to your home at your call to say goodbye to your beloved pet on his deathbed? A professional pet sitter would.
While a professional pet sitter may cost slightly more than a non-professional counterpart (i.e. hobby pet sitter), your investment pays big dividends. Using a professional pet sitter who is insured, bonded and trained protects you and your pet – and I know there’s no price you would place on your pet’s safety and well-being!
I highly encourage pet owners to ask the following questions when seeking to secure the services of a pet sitter or dog walker:
- Does the pet sitter have the proper business license for your city or state, if required?
- Is the pet sitter insured and bonded?
- Can the pet sitter provide proof of clear criminal history?
- Does the pet sitter provide client references?
- Will the pet sitter use a pet-sitting services agreement or contract?
- Is the pet sitter a PSI Certified Professional Pet Sitter™ and/or has he or she participated in pet-care training, such as pet first aid?
- Is the pet sitter a member of professional and/or educational associations, such as Pet Sitters International?
Pet owners can view a complete explanation of these questions and the answers to look for in the free Pet-Sitter Interview Checklist available on the PSI website.
As a professional pet sitter, I understand the importance of the services I provide to pet owners and their pets. I encourage pet owners to carefully select a pet sitter, just as they would a sitter for their children.
I also encourage pet owners to set up an initial consultation in their home with any prospective pet sitter to ensure the sitter exhibits comfort with their pets, documents the pet owner’s specific requests, and delivers a service agreement that details services and fees.
If you’re ready to get started with Comfort Zone Critter Care, schedule your FREE in-home Meet and Greet Consultation HERE.
