Dog sitting is the process of looking after a pet or a group of pets for an extended period of time. It can be for a short time or over a longer period, such as when an owner goes on holiday.
The job of a dog sitter is to provide daily care for pets, including walking them, feeding them, playing with them, grooming them and providing medicine when necessary. The dog sitter usually visits the pet’s home at pre-determined times to provide these services.
In order to be a successful pet sitter, you should be able to handle any problems that arise with confidence and ease. This is especially important if you are taking care of a sick or injured animal.
Some pet sitters are professionals in their field and have years of experience. Others work as independent contractors and are essentially self-employed. Regardless of your situation, you should seek out mentoring or coaching from someone with industry knowledge to ensure that you are doing all you can to protect your business and your customers.
You should also learn how to deal with negative feedback from clients. This can be difficult because of the sensitive nature of the industry, but it is a necessary part of being a successful pet sitter.
Be sure to have documentation of your business methods and policies. This can include contracts, insurance and other legal documentation. This can help you prove your professional stance and defend yourself if the client comes after you for any reason.
Documentation is also helpful for clients who are concerned about their pet’s safety. Having proof of your professional qualifications will give them peace of mind and allow them to have confidence in you.
Keep a detailed calendar for each pet that you sit for so that you can stay on top of their needs and schedules. You should also make notes about any medications or special diets that the animal requires, as well as how often they need to be walked.
When you are hired to care for multiple dogs, cats or other pets, it’s crucial that you remain organized. You will need to create a consistent schedule for each of them, and you should communicate with all of the owners regularly so that they know when you’re coming to visit.
Keeping a detailed schedule and taking notes will also help you to remember when the owner is supposed to pick up the animal. You should also be organized to ensure that you have the necessary supplies on hand at all times, such as food and water bowls, medications, poop bags and toys.
You should also bring a blanket or pillow to comfort the animals when they’re sleeping at night, or to help them feel secure if they’re feeling nervous. Many pets get anxious when their owners are away, so being able to comfort them and make them feel safe can help relieve any anxiety they may be feeling.