Owning a pet makes you physically and mentally healthier, according to the American Heart Association. 20% of non-pet owners say they don’t want to risk getting a pet due to not having enough time to care for them. Things such as vacations, traveling, and overseas work commitments can make pet ownership tricky. But a simple solution is to hire a house sitter who doubles up as a pet sitter. But before you leave your new pet in their hands, make sure your sitter is the right fit by asking them these questions.
How do you handle behavior problems?
Pets are often badly behaved, especially dogs. Research shows that 86% of pooches display at least one bad behavior. These behaviors include toileting indoors with windows, humping objects, and barking at other dogs. You’re sure to want to get on top of troublesome behaviors and the only way to do this is with a universal approach. If you ask a pet sitter how they handle bad behavior and they respond with things such as “shouting” or “locking the dog outside”, you know they haven’t got your pet’s best interests at heart. Instead, look for a pet sitter who uses a calm, effective approach, and is willing to work with you to solve the issue.
What experience do you have?
One of the most important questions you should ask a pet sitter relates to their experience. Dogs and cats are the most commonly owned pets and most pet sitters will have experience with them. But fish, reptiles, small mammals, and rabbits are also popular pets. More than 32,000 Americans even have a ferret as a pet. Make sure the pet sitter you choose has the relevant experience for your type of pet. For example, knowing what a rabbit eats compared to a dog is crucial as rabbits are strict herbivores, while dogs are carnivores. Similarly, grooming a rabbit is different from maintaining a cat’s coat. A rabbit’s coat may need to be brushed daily, but some breeds of cats only need brushing weekly.
What would you do in an emergency?
Every year, 1 in 3 pets require emergency treatment, according to a leading pet insurance company. Finding out what your prospective pet sitter would do in an emergency is crucial as you want to be sure that your pet will be well looked after in their care. A good pet sitter will record your pet’s veterinary details as soon as they are given the job. They’ll seek veterinary assistance as soon as an incident happens, and promise to inform you of the emergency as soon as it’s practically possible to do so.
Are you qualified and insured?
In theory, anyone can claim to be a pet sitter. But the only pet sitter you want looking after your pet is one that’s qualified and insured. Not only do these show that the pet sitter is professional and takes their job seriously, but it also protects your pet. Qualifications in pet first aid, pet care, and pet behavior are recommended. Whereas, insurance will protect the sitter in the event of damage, destroyed equipment, or accidentally losing your pet.
Pet ownership has many benefits. Don’t miss out on these by denying yourself a pet, as there are always great pet sitters willing to help care for your pet when you can’t.
