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8 Tips for Successful Pet Sitting
- By Mary Shaw
Pet sitting is a challenging but rewarding profession. Use the tips provided below to become the very best pet sitter you can be.
- Know your client.
Well in advance of the day you begin the job, visit the home and get to know the pets and their owners. Make sure that you are comfortable in the home, comfortable with the pets, and comfortable with the owners. If you are uncomfortable in any way, it might be best to trust your instincts and decline the job. Your safety and peace of mind are of the utmost importance.
- Define your terms of service.
Make sure that you and the client agree on what services you will provide and when. Will you be staying in the home or commuting there once or twice per day? If you will be staying there, what are the house rules (and the client's expectations) regarding such things as visitation by your friends, use of appliances, food, etc.?
- Agree on payment.
Preferably in writing, make sure that both parties agree on the amount that you will receive per day or per visit, amount to be paid in advance (if any), terms for final payment, etc.
- Get clear instructions for the care and feeding of each pet.
Have the client provide detailed instructions for feeding and caring for each pet. Make sure you understand how, when, and where each pet is to be fed, get detailed walking instructions for dogs, and have the client show you how to administer any pet medications.
- Get clear instructions for any household tasks that you are expected to perform.
Make sure you know what household chores you are expected to perform. How often should the litter box be cleaned, and how? Where should the daily mail be placed? Does the client expect you to take out the garbage? If the phone rings, should you answer it? Also, if the home has a burglar alarm system, ensure that the client shows you how to operate it and what to do in the case of a false alarm.
- Get contact information.
Hopefully nothing will go wrong while the client is away, but it's best to be prepared. Be sure that the client provides you with emergency contact information. Get a copy of the client's itinerary, including hotel contact information and cell phone numbers. Ask the client for the names and phone numbers of at least one local contact who can help in an emergency. Be sure to get their veterinarian's name, address, and phone number. Also, if the veterinarian uses an after-hours emergency service, get contact information for that service as well.
- Verify the schedule.
Ensure that you know the exact date that you are to begin the job and exactly when the client is expected to return. Provide the client with a phone number through which he or she can contact you if the itinerary changes.
- Be reliable.
Now that you have all the information you need to do the job, make sure you follow through, day after day. Remember that pets must be fed regardless of whether it's raining or snowing or if you have a date that evening. To be viewed as a professional, be a professional.
Now go out there and be the best pet sitter in the business!
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Whisker-Watchers In Home Pet Care - Fully Insured
Featured Pet Sitter, Dweichel For
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