Kat’s Corner: Finding a Trusted Pet Sitter – What Pet Parents Should Know
- Kat Frizzell
- Aug 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 11
Your Go-To Guide for Compassionate, Professional Pet Care – Part 1
As a long-time pet sitter and proud member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), I understand how overwhelming it can be to find trustworthy care for your beloved pets. I collaborated with PPG members to help compile documents into a resource for pet parents. This effort has culminated in the launch of a new blog series.
This first installment is essential reading for anyone seeking a trusted pet sitter. Whether you're planning a vacation, facing an unexpected trip, or simply need occasional assistance, knowing what to look for—and what to avoid—is crucial.
🐾 Pet Sitting Isn’t Just a Gig – It’s a Profession
Anyone can claim to be a pet sitter, but professional pet sitting goes beyond just feeding your cat or walking your dog. A professional sitter is insured, trained, and dedicated to your pet’s safety and comfort. They invest time in understanding your animal’s needs, routine, and unique traits, and are prepared to handle emergencies.
Therefore, we believe it’s vital for pet parents to ask the right questions before hiring someone. Our shared document provides key discussion points to help you screen sitters and make the best decision for your pets.
✅ Questions to Ask Before Meeting the Pet Sitter
These questions help the sitter determine if you are a good match, understand your needs, assess safety, and evaluate if their services align with your expectations.
What is your address?
What kind of pet care are you looking for?
What services do you need (e.g., walks, drop-ins, overnights)?
What are the vacation dates or regular schedule?
Do you require round-the-clock care?
How often do you travel? Who has cared for your pets previously?
Will anyone else be involved in the pet care?
Have you used a professional sitter before?
How did you find us?
Have you reviewed our policies and pricing?
Tell us about your pets.
Name
Species/type and breed
Sex & spay/neuter status
General behavior when you're away
Potty/litter trained? Any accidents with routine changes?
Any concerning behaviors?
Bite history?
Aggression?
Resource guarding behavior?
Does your pet have any special or medical needs?
Any ongoing conditions, treatments, or allergies?
Medications (name, dosage, frequency)
Disabilities or impairments?
📝 10 Questions to Ask At Point of Reservation
These logistical and emergency-preparedness questions finalize plans and prepare for your absence.
How can we contact you and access your home safely while you’re away?
Full name, email, phone number
Home address
Access methods (e.g., garage code, key, lockbox)
Alarm or lock instructions
Wi-Fi name and password (if needed for cameras/apps)
Who should we call in case of an emergency or if you can't return?
Emergency contact (name & number)
Local backup (friend/family/neighbor)
Long-term backup for extended absence
What should we know about your home and routines?
Location of cleaning supplies
Household limitations or hazards
Where to dispose of waste
Tasks like trash day, watering plants, adjusting blinds, collecting mail/packages?
Tell us about your pets — we'll ask these questions for each one.
Name
Birth date (or age)
Species/Breed
Spayed/Neutered
Color/markings
Microchip number
Vaccination status
Photo of pet
Does your pet have any medical needs or a vet preference?
Ongoing illnesses, treatments, or allergies
Disabilities, pain, or impediments
Medications (name, dosage, frequency, how to administer)
Emergency protocol and preferred vet?
Primary and alternate vet
Preferred emergency protocol
Pet insurance details (if applicable)
Behavior and routines?
Exercise/play/nap routines
Where do they sleep? Any comfort items?
Known hiding places
Are there off-limit areas or known hazards?
What does your pet eat and drink — and how?
Water setup and restrictions
Food location, type, feeding schedule, and quantity/measurements
Any dietary restrictions or food sensitivities
Are treats okay? Any special feeding routines?
For dogs only:
Walk requirements
Location of leashes, collars, waste bags
Crate/kennel use?
Social behavior with other animals
Leash reactivity (dogs, cats, squirrels, kids)
Problem behaviors (barking, digging, escaping, aggression)
Helpful command words
For cats:
Number/location of litter boxes
Counter/table permissions
Indoor/outdoor access
Quirks, fears, stress behaviors
Known hiding places
Crate/carrier location in case of emergency
Special care for other animals (birds, reptiles, rodents, etc.)
Detailed care including but not limited to the applicable items above.
💡 Red Flags to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, not all pet sitters are equally qualified. Be cautious of:
Sitters who cannot provide proof of insurance
Vague answers regarding emergency procedures
A lack of training, references, or professionalism
Inflexibility with meet-and-greets
Your pets deserve excellent care, not a random, under-qualified stranger. Don’t compromise.
📚 What’s Coming Next in the Series?
This is only the start! Future posts in Kat’s Corner will explore these topics in more detail:
Key Questions to Ask a Pet Sitter Before Booking
Minimum Level of Care for In-home Pet Care
Non-negotiable Aspects of Pet Care Services
Whether you’re a first-time client or a seasoned pet parent, we aim to provide peace of mind and help you build relationships with pet care professionals who treat your animals like family.
💬 Let’s Hear From You!
Do you have a go-to question when interviewing a sitter? Have you had a positive (or negative) experience hiring one? I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts in the comments below.
Until next time, give your furry (or feathered or scaled!) friend a cuddle from me.
Stay pawsitive,
Kat
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