The Sitter Hiring Checklist
You’ve decided to go on holiday, but your pets need someone to look after them while you’re away. Choosing the right pet sitter is about more than simply finding someone available—it’s about finding someone who is the right fit for both you and your pets.
If you’re new to the process, you might be wondering where to start. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before hiring a pet sitter.
The Booking
The first thing you’ll need to do is decide when you’re going away. If you already know your travel dates, make a note of:
- The dates you’ll be away
- Your departure and return times
- Your flight times (where applicable)
Having this information ready allows potential sitters to check their availability straight away.
If your travel dates are flexible, that’s even better. Being able to adjust your trip slightly may allow you to book your preferred sitter, especially during busy periods.
Understanding Your Needs
Once you’ve decided roughly when you’ll be away and for how long, it’s time to think about the type of pet care that best suits your pet.
Most professional sitters offer one or more of the following services:
In-Home Pet Sitting
A sitter stays in your home while caring for your pet. This may include overnight stays and, in some cases, constant care where your pet is rarely left alone.
This is often the best option for nervous pets, elderly animals, or those who thrive on routine, as they remain in the comfort of their own home. While it is usually the most expensive option, many owners feel the peace of mind is well worth the investment.
Dog Boarding
Boarding means your dog stays in the sitter’s home.
This can be a fantastic option for sociable dogs that enjoy meeting new people, experiencing different environments, and being part of a family setting.
Kennels
Kennels are generally the most affordable option and can work well for independent, confident dogs that are comfortable away from home.
Finding the Right Sitter
Once you’ve decided which service you need, it’s time to find the right person.
The best recommendation often comes from friends or family. A personal referral gives you confidence that the sitter is trustworthy and reliable.
If you don’t have a recommendation, searching online is a great alternative. You’ll find a wide variety of professional pet care providers, allowing you to compare services and choose the one that feels right for you.
When browsing potential sitters, check whether they:
- Offer the service you need
- Are fully insured
- Hold the appropriate licence (where required)
- Are DBS checked
- Have genuine client reviews
- Share photos of their home or facilities (where applicable)
- Provide clear information about their experience and services
The more information a sitter provides, the easier it is to make an informed decision.
Once you’ve found someone who seems like a good fit, get in touch to discuss your needs, ask questions about how they work, and check their availability.
Don’t worry if you need to contact several sitters before finding the right one. This is completely normal, particularly during school holidays and peak travel seasons.
The Meet & Greet
After your initial phone call or online consultation, it’s important to arrange a Meet & Greet.
Even if your holiday is still months away, don’t leave this until the last minute. Meeting in advance gives you plenty of time to find another sitter if, for any reason, you don’t feel they’re the right match.
A Meet & Greet is the perfect opportunity to get to know each other, introduce your pet, and discuss all the important details.
Questions to ask:
- Credentials – Ask to see their insurance documents, DBS certificate, and licence (where applicable). A professional sitter should be happy to provide these.
- How Their Service Works – Every sitter operates slightly differently. Ask about their daily routine, how often your pet will be exercised, whether they’ll leave the house during the day, and what communication you can expect while you’re away.
- Special Requirements – If your pet has medical needs, behavioural quirks, dietary requirements, or follows a particular routine, discuss these during the meeting and make sure the sitter is comfortable accommodating them.
- Paperwork – A professional sitter should provide a written agreement outlining the service, along with forms to collect emergency contact details, veterinary information, and your pet’s care routine. Take the time to read everything carefully before signing.
Trust Your Instincts
As the Meet & Greet progresses, you’ll naturally get a feel for whether the sitter is the right fit.
If everything feels right, you can book with confidence.
However, if something doesn’t sit quite right, don’t feel pressured to make an immediate decision. It’s perfectly acceptable to thank them for their time and say you’d like to think about it.
Choosing someone to care for your beloved pet is an important decision. Taking a little extra time to find the right person is always better than rushing into a booking you’ll later regret.
After all, the right sitter won’t just care for your pet—they’ll help you leave with ease so you can truly enjoy your holiday.
If you need someone to look after your pet while you are away feel free to get in touch!👇🏽
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