5 Tips for Choosing a Pet Sitter in San Diego

We know finding and choosing someone to care for furry family member(s) are very difficult tasks. It is the primary reason See Spot Sit was started over 20 years ago. From huge tech companies pretending to be pet care professionals to people using pet care as a side hustle in the gig economy, how do you know who you can trust to not only love your pet but keep them (and your home) safe?

1. Assess Your Pet’s Needs

How much time and attention does your pet require? Often, this is determined by their age, activity level, and sociability. Do your pets require a special diet or medication? You’ll want to be sure to find someone comfortable following directions and administering medications. What do YOU need to enjoy your time away and worry less? Be honest and set clear expectations. Consider the length of your trip and the possible effect that might have on a single person (versus a team) working for many days in a row without a break.

2. Finding Your Pet’s Next Best Friend

Ask friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, and even your veterinarian or groomer for recommendations. When searching online, many professional pet sitting organizations have zip code searches for pet care providers in your neighborhood. Avoid posting requests for specific dates on social media, as this can pose a security issue.

3. Check for professional credentials and training

Choose a pet sitter who is licensed, insured and bonded (background checked is an extra plus). This will cover your home and pet in case of an accident or neglect as well as against theft. Certifications like pet first aid, certified professional pet sitter (CPPS), and a fear free certification show that they take their business seriously. Also check for affiliations to organizations such as National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) & Pet Sitters International (PSI) that stress the importance of insurance and certifications.

4. Check References and reviews

It’s best to cross reference all recommendations (whether personal or online) with online reviews such as Google or Yelp and/or personal references. A trustworthy pet sitter will have references and reviews to share from other pets they care for.

5. Conduct A Meet & Greet

This interview is a crucial step for you to see how your pets (and potential pet sitter) interact with one another. During this meeting, have a list of questions ready. When giving them a tour, observe how they note the specific details you’re communicating. How will they remember that Fluffy should get filtered water only? Are they asking questions to get to know your pet thoroughly? Is your pet sitter prepared to send daily updates with pictures? Do they have the availability to be with your pet as often as you’re hoping and show up when they say they will?

Choosing a pet sitter is more than just finding someone who is available for the dates you’re looking for. You want to find someone you can trust with your furry family member AND your home.

At See Spot Sit we are proud to offer professional cat care and dog walking for most of San Diego. Our super reliable, trained, insured, bonded, and background checked team is here to give your pets all of the love and attention they deserve. Schedule your consultation today!