Are you in need of a dog sitter?
Choosing the right dog sitter can be a hard task. In this article, we’re going to help you so that you can make sure you are getting the right pet sitter for your needs.
Like many other pet owners, there may be occasions where you might need to leave your pet at home for an extended period of time. One option is to send them to dog resorts/dog hotels/boarding kennels. The other option is to find a dog sitter.
But finding the perfect dog sitter is difficult. It’s difficult to find someone that suits you and your pet so that you can travel with a peace of mind.
That’s why we’re here. We’re going to present to you the different kinds of dog sitters, where to find them, and how to know if they’re right for you. Think of this like a ‘guide to finding a dog sitter’ that you need.
It can be difficult to find the right dog sitter for your pet.
Types of Dog Sitters
There are different types of dog sitters out there. These are:
- Drop in Dog Sitters
- In-House Dog Sitters
- Dog Boarding Sitters
Drop In Dog Sitter
Just like the name suggests, drop in dog sitters will ‘drop’ by and look after your pet for a certain length of time. Dogs feel safest when they’re in known environments, and what safer environment is there than their own home?
Drop-in dog sitters are perfect for those extra long work days, or even the occasional day trip. Drop-in sitters will drop by and make sure that your dogs are fed, they’ve got enough water, and even play with them for a little while or take them on a walk.
However, they’ll leave once their tasks are done. As dogs are highly social creatures, this isn’t the best option if you’re going to be gone for multiple days.
In-House Dog Sitter
Similar to drop-in dog sitters, in-house dog sitters will also come and look after your pets at your place. However, unlike drop-in sitters, in-house sitters will stay with your dog in your home for extended periods of time. While once fairly uncommon, in-house dog sitters have been an increasingly popular choice for owners, especially those that love to travel.
Their sole attention is to provide your pets with loving care at your place. This is why in-house dog sitters are becoming the most popular pet care option loved by dogs and their owners, especially owners that like to travel.
And this option isn’t that expensive either. There are plenty of great services and communities out there that’ll be willing to do this at a reasonable price.
Dog boarding Sitter
Finally, we have the dog boarding sitters, probably the most common kind of dog sitters. These guys are usually professionals who will look after your pet in their own home. Thus, your dog will reside in the dog sitter’s house.
While not exactly home, this option lets your dog reside in a home-like environment. This can be less stressful than a dog hotel or boarding kennel. Additionally, your dog might be staying with other dogs as well, including the sitter’s own dogs and the sitter’s other client dogs. Thus, your dog gets the benefit of constant companionship.
Finding a Dog Sitter
Not sure where to find a dog sitter? Well, here are the best ways to find a dog sitter when you need one:
- Word of Mouth
- Local
- Facebook Communities
- Dog sitting websites
One of the best ways to find the perfect dog sitter is by searching online. It’s the 21st century after all.
Word of Mouth
One of the best ways to find a good handyman or plumber is by asking other people. And guess what, so is finding a good dog sitter! Be sure to ask around as there’s bound to be someone who has used a dog sitter before. People you can ask include your dog-owning friends, fellow dog walkers, owners at dog parks, and the people working at a local veterinary clinic.
But make sure you also return the favour! If you find someone who you love, make sure to recommend them to others too! By sharing your own personal experience, you can give other dog owners a peace of mind while they are away.
Local
The first way you can find a dog sitter is in your neighbourhood. You can find dog sitters advertising their services on notice boards in shopping centres, markets, or the local newspaper. Other places where they might list their services include the local dog park and the vet.
Facebook Communities
As we’re currently living in the 21st century, not many dog sitters advertise their services using the traditional media anymore. Most of them have moved online as it’s quicker and more convenient to do.
Thus, check to see if your neighbourhood has a local Facebook group or community (usually they do) and join if you haven’t already done so.
Once you’re in, simply post your dilemma in the Facebook community. It can be as short as “I’m looking for a dog sitter for x days, does anyone have any recommendations?”. Otherwise, you can also include more details if you like, such as your dog’s dietary requirements or other needs. There’s bound to be a couple of people who will recommend you a dog sitter.
Dog sitting websites
As it is currently 2022, you can find pretty much anything online, including a dog sitter. Simply google “dog sitters” and you’re bound to find at least a dozen websites and businesses that offer dog sitting services.
When interviewing potential dog sitters, make sure you’re asking the right questions.
Important Questions to Ask A Dog Sitter
Once you’ve found a couple of potential dog sitters, you can narrow down your list by getting to know them. Ask the potential sitters as many questions as you need to feel comfortable with them. Some questions you might want to ask a potential dog sitter include:
- Do you have any dog sitting experience?
- Is there anything that you’re uncomfortable doing?
- How much time and effort will you dedicate to looking after my dog?
- Will you be looking after other dogs?
- What do you charge?
Remember to always set out your expectations with the dog sitter from the start. If you want your dog to get at least two hours of exercise a day, or if your dog has certain allergies or conditions, make sure you let the dog sitter know beforehand.
It can be a daunting task to find a good dog sitter when you need one. Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time to find the right person for the job.
