Pet sitters offer a valuable service, enabling pet parents to travel, work, or pursue adventures that sometimes don’t include their precious pets. However, entrusting your dog or cat to someone else can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know them well. Unfortunately, while many pet sitters are dedicated professionals, not all of them are as reliable or caring as they claim to be.
Some pet sitters lack experience, are irresponsible, or even have little to no affection for animals, viewing the job as an easy side hustle. These harsh truths are why it’s so important to recognize the warning signs of a questionable sitter early on.
Pay attention to red flags and trust your instincts to avoid stressful situations. The first step is knowing the signs of a problem pet sitter when you’re hiring, and what to look for once they start the job.
Warning Signs When Hiring a Pet Sitter
Before you hand over your pets to someone else, pay close attention to the sitter’s behavior and professionalism during the initial interview stages. Here are some common warning signs that should make you think twice.
1. The Pet Sitter Doesn’t Ask Enough Questions
A responsible, dedicated pet sitter should want to know every detail about your pet. Their goal should be to understand your pet’s needs so they are well-prepared for their time together.
Expect a qualified sitter to ask about your dog or cat’s routine, feeding schedule, any dietary restrictions, health conditions, medications, etc. They should also ask about your pet’s favorite toys, things they like to do, habits, what scares them, and how they typically act.
If a potential pet sitter doesn’t ask questions, it signals that they may be inexperienced or that they don’t care about your pet’s best interests. At the very least, they likely aren’t focused on giving your fur baby the individualized care you want them to have.
2. They Don’t Ask to Meet Your Pet First
A reputable sitter should ask to meet your pet before you leave to make sure everyone is comfortable, including your pet. This initial meeting also gives you a glimpse at how your pet responds to the sitter.
A pet sitter who doesn’t want to meet your pet first or simply says they’ll show up at your house after you leave is a big red flag. They may simply not care, or they could be trying to mask the fact that they’re overbooked, unorganized, or not confident around animals.
3. They Can’t Provide Any Reviews or References
Of course, everyone needs to start somewhere, so someone new to the business might not have any pet-sitter reviews. Therefore, a lack of references doesn't automatically mean they won’t do a good job. However, you don’t need to be their first client.
Ask them about any former experience with animals, like volunteer work or similar pet-related jobs. Check any references they give you to verify them. If they don’t have anything to offer or things come back negative, move on to someone else on your list.
4. It’s Hard to Contact Them
Would you want to leave your pet with someone who you can never reach on the phone or who doesn’t respond to texts? If a sitter has poor communication when you’re trying to get information about their practices and pricing, take it as a hint of future interactions. Look for someone who is transparent, clear, and responds readily, and get everything in writing.
5. They Don’t Have Insurance or an Emergency Plan
Your best friend may not carry liability insurance if they agree to watch your pup for you, but professional sitters typically carry some type of plan. They will also have detailed plans in case of an emergency, whether it’s an accident or you’re unable to return when expected.
It’s perfectly acceptable for you to ask potential sitters about their backup plans and pet-sitting insurance. If they seem offended or don’t know how to answer, it’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.
6. They Overpromise Without Proof
If a sitter claims they can handle multiple pets, long walks, and frequent daily visits, double-check their availability. If they have references that support their claims, then all could be well.
However, if they don’t have a proven track record, it could be that they’re eager to get your business and are promising the moon. Sometimes sitters overbook themselves, leading to rushed visits and neglected pets.
Is It Better to Have Someone You Know Watch Your Pets?
Understandably, you probably feel more comfortable asking a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor to look after your pets instead of hiring a stranger. Here are some pros and cons of asking someone you know to watch your pet.
The Advantages
- You already trust them.
- They already know your pet, and your pet knows them.
- Someone you know may be more flexible with their schedule and charge less (or may do it as a favor).
The Disadvantages
- They may not take the job as seriously since they aren’t getting paid, or because they know you.
- Although they’re willing, they may not be experienced with how to care for a pet.
- If something happens to your pet, it could lead to a rift in your relationship.
Signs You Need to Hire a New Pet Sitter
You find a great pet sitter (at least they seem to be), and you hire them to watch your pet. They do a fabulous job the first time, so you hire them again. But what if things start to go sideways? What signs should you keep an eye out for that might signal you need to find somebody else?
1. Your Pet Seems Anxious or Skittish When You Return
If your pet starts acting strangely after being with the sitter, pay attention. A dog or cat that suddenly acts fearful, aggressive, shy, or unusual in any way following time with a sitter could be experiencing distress.
It could be from rough handling, neglect, or lack of emotional care. Your pet may not be able to talk to you about what happened, but they can communicate through body language and behavior.
2. Missed Visits or Inconsistent Updates
If the sitter doesn’t stick to the schedule or doesn’t respond to you with regular updates, it’s time to look for someone new. Reliable sitters should follow the agreed schedule and communicate as often as you request.
3. Your House Is a Mess
Are your pet’s food and water dishes empty? Is the litter box overflowing? Are there toys everywhere? Dirty dishes in the sink? A good sitter will leave your pet and home in the same or better condition.
4. The Sitter Gets Defensive
If you raise a concern and your sitter becomes defensive instead of responsive, that’s a major red flag. A trustworthy sitter should be receptive to feedback and willing to explain or correct any issues.
5. Your Gut Tells You Something’s Wrong
Always trust your gut. Even if everything appears okay on the surface, if your instincts tell you something is off, then listen. Your pets are family, and they count on you to be their advocate. If you feel they’re in untrustworthy hands, it’s time to replace your pet sitter.
Tips for Finding a Reputable Pet Sitter You Can Trust
The good news is that there are plenty of trustworthy, compassionate sitters out there who will treat your pets like their own. Use these tips to find the perfect fit for you and your pet.
- Ask people you know for recommendations, including your groomer, vet, trainers, etc.
- Check certifications and experience. For example, pet sitters who belong to professional organizations, like Pet Sitters International (PSI) and the National Association of Pet Sitters (NAPPS), typically have training in pet first-aid, behavior, and other specializations.
- Schedule a meet-and-greet with potential pet sitters and your pet to see how they interact and how your pet responds.
- Get everything in writing.
- Start with a short overnight trip or even a long day at work instead of kicking things off with a week-long vacation.
- Ask for regular updates.
Make Sure Your Pet Sitter Is The Right Pick for the Job
Staying alert to potential red flags and knowing how to find a good pet sitter are musts when choosing the perfect caretaker for your fur baby. It’s also important to do your part. Make sure to prepare your house for pet sitters and be responsive and communicative with them.
Trust your instincts, do your homework, and choose someone who genuinely loves animals. Your furry friend deserves the best, and you deserve peace of mind knowing they’re in good hands when you’re away.