Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter: What You Need to Ask

You can’t be too careful when it comes to choosing a pet sitter. Some pet owners choose to save money by having friends, family members, or neighbors look in on their pets. Others hire “hobby pet sitters,” who advertise pet sitting services but don’t have a business license, insurance, or (sometimes) any animal care or first aid credentials. Savvy pet owners, though, go the route of hiring a professional pet sitter, like the sitters at Boulevard Bark.

Professional pet sitters are individuals who make a living looking after animals. You can rest assured that they are dedicated, passionate individuals who are devoted to providing the best possible care for your pets while you’re away. When looking for a professional pet sitter in Bellingham, there are plenty of excellent choices. How do you know who to hire? Here are some questions you need to be asking each and every professional pet sitter you interview.

Does the Pet Sitter Have the Correct Business License?

A business license is one major factor that sets professional pet sitters apart from hobby pet sitters. If someone earns their living pet sitting, they should definitely be in compliance with state and local laws and requirements for business owners. Having a business license is one sign that  a pet sitter is truly dedicated to this line of work. Never hire a pet sitter who hasn’t met this basic business requirement!

Does the Pet Sitter Have Business Insurance?

You have a right to ask for proof of insurance coverage if you’re doubtful. A pet sitter’s insurance policy protects your property, and their business, and no professional pet sitter should be operating without a policy in place.

Does the Pet Sitter Use a Service Contract?

A professional pet sitter’s service contract lays out important details that you agree upon before services start. The contract will specify what the pet sitter is (and is not!) responsible for while your home and animals are in their care. It also will outline any policies and procedures that pertain to you and the services  you’ll be receiving.

Is the Pet Sitter a Member of a Professional Pet Sitting Organization?

Another sign that your pet sitter is dedicated to this line of work, and committed to ongoing professional growth, is membership in a group such as Pet Sitters International or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). Boulevard Bark is a part of Pet Sitters International.

(Membership in a local network, such as the Whatcom Pet Care Network, is also a sign of an excellent pet sitter).

Is the Pet Sitter Certified in Pet First Aid and CPR?

Pet sitters who are dedicated to their profession will have taken the time and spent the money to receive this training and keep it up to date. Ask them what course they took and when they completed it.