Tips for Pet Sitting
If you are going to be pet sitting on a regular basis, it is a good idea to know what you are getting into. Even if you are doing a favor for a friend, you'll need to be clear on what both parties expect.
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- Find out what is expected in terms of animal care. Does the animal have free access to food and water, or does it have a specific time for feeding? If the animal is caged, you'll need to know how to clean out its cage and how to properly open and secure the door to the cage. It’s important too, to find out if the animal will need to be walked, bathed or brushed while in your care.
- Discuss any behavioral issues that animal may have. If the animal bites or becomes aggressive in certain situations, you'll want to know that ahead of time, especially if you have small children. Make sure the owner of the animal shows you how to properly handle it to prevent injury to both you and the animal.
- Agree on a set payment for your services. Both parties should know what to expect and when to expect payment.
- Make sure the animal is healthy, up-to-date on all vaccinations and that you can recognize any signs of illness. Ask the owner where to take the animal or who to contact if the animal should need medical care.
- If the animal wears a collar, make sure the information on it is correct in case the animal were to get loose while in your care.