10 Tips To Become A Budding Pet Sitter

Suresh living in New York loved animals and had a passion to look after them; he loved to pet sit his neighbor and friend’s dogs. He wished to become a pet sitter; he decided he would consult a professional pet sitter and know how to go about it. He was asked to follow 10 tips to help him be a professional pet sitter.

10 tips to help him be a professional pet sitter:

It is first very important to get a certification from an organization that is specialized; getting a certificate from Pet Sitters International (PSI) or National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) would solidify your pet sitting career. Becoming certified gives you a seal of approval from a vetted organization that can only help further your career. You may also want to look into becoming licensed, bonded, and insured.

Secondly read trade publications like Pet Sitters World published by Pet Sitters International (PSI); you would get a lot of information and resources to start with.

Thirdly find out the rates for pet sitting in your area by consulting other local pet sitters. You could then formulate your rate depending on your expertise, experience and other additional services provided. Remember to include additional expenses such as mileage and other hidden expenses.

Fourthly word of mouth advertising works wonders; provide references and testimonials from clients that are satisfied. This will help build a strong and positive reputation that would help you get a good number of clients.

Fifthly  prepare a questionnaire for the owner of the pet to answer and be open to answer any questions they ask; pay particular attention to knowing about the pet’s special medical and nutritional needs. In case of older pets be prepared to go that extra mile to make them feel cared for.

Sixthly be aware of the nearest established veterinarian and/or animal hospital; this is essential even when the client gives you all the veterinary information to act quickly in case one of your charges requires emergency medical attention. 

Seventhly establish a support system; it is always a good idea to consider working with another pet sitter who can help you out in case you experience difficulty while taking care of your charges. Working with a pet groomer would also help keep the business flowing.

Eighthly, be prepared for collateral damage while pet sitting at the client’s house; form a comprehensive checklist that includes emergency numbers to a support network. Face the unexpected with a smile, and keep your charges happy.

Ninthly provide additional special services like exercise and/or therapy or training; your existing clients would be the best persons to provide you tips regarding the additional services you can provide.   

Tenthly pay special attention to special needs like diabetic care and geriatric care; be ready to give medications, cater to additional dietetic needs, allergies and other conditions. Ensure you contact a vet if you are unsure about the specifics of the pet’s needs.

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