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Getting Started as a Pet Sitter
Pet sitting can be incredibly rewarding, but walking into it unprepared can lead to stress for both you and the animals in your care. Whether you are watching a neighbor's cat for the weekend or thinking about pet sitting as a regular service, these ten tips will help you start on the right foot.
1. Do a Meet-and-Greet First
Always meet the pet before the owner leaves. Spend at least 15-30 minutes getting to know the animal in their own home. This helps the pet associate you with a safe, familiar environment.
2. Get Detailed Written Instructions
Ask the owner to write down everything: feeding schedule, portion sizes, medication instructions, favorite toys, behavioral quirks, and where supplies are kept. Having this in writing prevents miscommunication.
3. Collect Emergency Contacts
Get the owner's phone number, their vet's contact information, and a backup emergency contact. Keep the nearest 24-hour emergency vet clinic address saved in your phone as well.
4. Stick to the Routine
Pets thrive on consistency. Feed them at the same times the owner does, take walks on the same schedule, and try to keep bedtime routines intact. Sudden changes can cause anxiety.
5. Pet-Proof the Space
Before the owner leaves, walk through the home together and identify anything that could be dangerous: open windows, toxic plants, loose cables, or accessible trash cans. Close doors to rooms that are off-limits.
6. Send Updates
Pet owners worry. Send a quick photo or text at least once a day to let them know their pet is happy and healthy. Most owners appreciate this more than you might expect.
7. Know the Signs of Distress
Learn basic indicators that something is wrong: excessive panting, refusal to eat for more than a day, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. When in doubt, call the vet rather than waiting it out.
8. Bring Your Own Supplies
Pack a small kit with treats, waste bags, a flashlight for evening walks, and a lint roller. Having your own basics means you are never caught off guard.
9. Be Honest About Your Limits
If you are not comfortable with a particular type of pet, special medical needs, or a long-duration sit, it is better to say so upfront. Honesty protects both you and the animal.
10. Build Your Reputation
After a successful sit, ask the owner for a review. Positive feedback builds credibility and helps you attract more clients. Listing your services on a directory like HeyDog makes it easy for nearby pet owners to find and contact you.
Your First Sit Will Teach You the Most
No amount of reading fully replaces hands-on experience. Stay calm, be attentive, and remember that most pets just want routine and companionship. The more sits you complete, the more confident you will become.
Written by HeyDog Team
Practical pet care advice from the team behind HeyDog.