FAQ

What are the advantages of pet care in my home vs. a kennel for my house pets?

Pet sitting in your home offers the best of all worlds - for pets and their owners.  To name a few benefits:

1.  Trauma is minimized. 

2.  Owners need not go through the ordeal of transporting unhappy pets and worrying that they might be exposed to other animals' illnesses. 

3.  Animals get to stay in their familiar environment, maintain their diet and exercise routine and are attended to by caring professionals


How do I hire a reliable Pet Sitter?

 

Hiring a pet sitter is a serious process.  Make sure the person you choose is trained and professional.  He/she will not only be responsible for your pet, but also will have regular access to your home.

Once you have identified a potential pet sitter: 

  • Develop a set of questions and conduct a thorough interview
  • Ask for references
  • Make sure he/she interacts well with your pet

Services and fees can very widely. Be sure to determine:

  • what your needs are
  • exactly how much services will cost

We recommend that you choose a NAPPS pet sitter.


What kind of pet info will my pet sitter need?

In order for your pet sitter to provide the best care for your pet, he/she will need to know everything and anything about your animal.

You should provide your pet sitter with answers to a number of questions:

  • What are your pet's routines and schedules (eating, sleeping, walking, playing)?
  • Does your pet have major or minor health problems? 
  • Does it require medication?  If so, provide its location and schedule.
  • What should be done in case of an emergency?
  • Where do you keep your pet's favorite toys?
  • Is your dog a chewer?  If so, make sure you provide the location of its chew toys.
  • What are your pet's favorite hiding places?  (This will prevent a panic if your animal is nowhere to be found)
  • Does your pet have any unusual habits (changes in bowel movements, eating habits, fears, etc.)?

Also provide the pet sitter with written verification of up-to-date vaccinations (collar tags or copy of vaccination certificates).

Make sure that your pet has an identification tag with name, address and phone number (This goes for cats, as well as dogs).


What can I do to make sure the pet sitter has everything they need to care for my pet(s)?

Being prepared will help pave the way for a positive pet sitting experience:

  • Make your pet sitting reservations as early as possible, especially prior to holidays.
  • Have an extra house/apartment key made for the pet sitter.  Make sure it works.
  • Buy extra food, litter and supplies before you go away.  Always buy a little extra in case you're away longer than expected.
  • Let the sitter know where to find cleaning tools - vacuum, mop, broom, dustpan, sponges, cleaners trash bags.
  • Show the sitter where the fuse box/circuit breaker is and where to find new fuses.
  • Make sure your dog's collar fits properly and includes an identification tag.
  • Is your dog used to walking on a leash?  If not, practice with him/her beforehand.

Does the pet owner need to do any preparation before leaving?

If you are going to be away for a while, take steps to make sure everything is taken care of before you go.

  • Leave a piece of clothing that you've recently worn near where your pet sleeps as a reminder of you.
  • Display the name and phone number of your vet in a prominent place.  Show it to the pet sitter before departing.
  • Place out appropriate food and water bowls for your pet's use.  Clean them beforehand.
  • Put everything needed for your pet's care in a specific area so the sitter doesn't have to search for leashes, food or medications.  Let the sitter know where these items are.
  • If the sitter will be coming in the evening, hook up a timer light so he/she will not have to come to a dark house. It will be homier for your pet as well.
  • Select a neighbor to keep an eye on your place while you're gone.
  • Let him/her know that a pet sitter will be coming to your home while you're away. 
  • Provide him/her with a key in case of an emergency, inclement weather or in the event the pet sitter cannot make a scheduled visit.
  • Give the pet sitter the neighbor's name and phone number.

Communication is Essential.

Pet ownership in the United States is continually on the rise.  Currently, 63 percent of all American households have pets.  The US pet population includes some 73 million dogs, 90 million cats and 16 million birds plus fish, hamsters and other animals.[1]  These pets are happiest when they're home, surrounded by familiar sights, smells and sounds.

  • The best way to develop a good relationship with your pet sitter is through communication. Being open and honest with your sitter will reap positive results. 
  • Let the sitter know about any areas in your home that are off limits to him/her and/or your pet.
  • Provide the names and phone numbers of the vet and an emergency contact.
  • List names and numbers of contractors in case a problem arises (electrician, plumber, maid service, yard or pool maintenance).
  • Leave your contact information - cell phone number, as well as number(s) of where you will be while away.
  • Will another person(s) being checking on your pet or home?  If so, let the pet sitter know.
    • Provide them with each other's name and phone number.
    • Clarify each person's responsibilities and schedules.
  • Except for emergencies, always contact your pet sitter during office hours.  Be especially considerate of sitters who operate their businesses from their homes.
  • If your instructions or plans change, once you're away, call your sitter and let him/her know (make sure to check time zone differences before you call).