What Makes a Professional Pet Sitter?

 A common question we receive is “What is a professional pet sitter?” It is a great question, especially these days with many web sites like Angie’s List, Care.com and more popping up on the internet claiming to have pet care experts and professionals. The sad part is, these websites and others like them do absolutely nothing to vet the credentials, educational history or professionalism of their vendors. Heck, on Care.com all you have to do is pay for a featured profile and voila! You’re listed on their front page as a pet sitting expert, scary, huh? Because of this, we are hearing more heartbreaking stories of injured or lost pets and damaged property this past year than in our previous 14 years in business. To avoid scams here is a list of things every professional pet sitter should always do to ensure the highest levels of professionalism:
• Licensed, Bonded and Insured – This is critical – if they do not have these three things, do not do business with them, you are placing yourself, your pets and your property in serious danger without any recourse of action if anything were to happen…also, are they a legitimate business and pay taxes? If not, do you trust someone like that?
• Initial Consultation – ensures the owner and pets have a good initial bond, captures detailed information and seems genuinely interested in all of your care needs
• Service Agreement – details all expectations, specific services and associated fees
• Emergency Back-Up – should always have back-up staff and contingency plans in case of emergencies/inclement weather.
• Expertise – can confidently answer questions regarding breeds, exercise, diet, pet first aid and more as well as participates as a member in professional pet sitting organizations such as PSI or NAPPS. Do they publish educational articles online, in magazines or teach courses?
• Experience – how long has your pet sitter been in business and have they worked with your pet(s)?
• Standard Business Operations – office hours; consistent, concise & timely communications; staff uniforms; standards checklists; professional pet sitting & invoicing software; confirmation of services; collect client feedback; 100 percent confidentiality
• Legitimate References – with so many websites allowing anyone to post a review good or bad ask your pet sitter if they have actual clients willing to speak with you directly.
• Community Contributor – sponsors a local rescue shelter with charitable donations and volunteer time, partners with other professional businesses (groomers, veterinarians and more).
Doggy Duty US is licensed, bonded and insured.  For more information, please call 661-418-7595 and visit online at www.doggyduty.us.