How to Choose a Dog Walker Pet Sitter

A dog walker will spend 35 years to life in tail after using his clients’ keys to retrieve jewelry rather than their dog’s for walks. He worked for several families all of which gave him keys to their house so that he could take their dogs out for walks during the day or while they were on vacation. He took over $5,500 worth of jewelry from three victims in October and November 2009. This wasn’t this person’s first offense either he has a string of home robbery convictions on his record from well before he

We all know that this is the situation we all want to avoid. We want to make sure our home is protected and our pets are safe. We want to know that the health and well-being of our dogs is first and foremost a priority for anyone you hire. Just like when hiring someone to care for your child if you have to leave the house the same rules apply for having someone care for your pet. You want to know that they will show up when they promise to take your dog for a walk, administer medication, or feed them. You want to know that your pets are happy with their new friend while you are away.

Once you have identified a potential pet sitter:

Develop a set of questions and conduct a thorough interview:
What sort of questions would you ask someone taking care of your child? Do they have a relationship with a veterinarian and an emergency hospital? What experience do they have caring for animals? Can they administer pills if necessary?



Ask for references and be sure to call them
Listen to what the references have to say. Are they telling you that their dog loved the sitter and gets excited any time their name is mentioned? Was the pet happy when the owners got back or was it hiding someone and have to be lured out. Also ask for the name of their vet so you can make sure their pets are regular patients there and are up to date on their vaccinations. You don’t want them to bring diseases into your home especially if you have a puppy or elderly dog.



Request proof of bonding and liability insurance coverage
This is insurance that pet sitters / pet walkers can purchase in order to help you feel more comfortable and give you some peace of mind. It also covers them in case of an accident.



Make sure the person interacts well with your pet
Invite the potential pet sitter to your home or meet at the park so they can visit with your dogs. This to me is the most important thing. Does your dog walk up to them and wag their tail? Do they want to be pet by the person you are considering? If your dog tries to lick them what is their reaction? Not everyone love it when a dog licks their face but a dog lover will smile, say thank you for the kisses and or talk to the dog while someone who is not a good match would get mad at your dog and push them away forcefully.  If your dog gets upset by this new stranger and barks or growls and does not calm down quickly this person is not a good match. If however you have a conversation with the potential dog walker pet sitter and the entire time your dog is by their side you know your dog likes them.