With more pet-sitting options and numerous online pet-sitter directories, you will need to be more prudent in your search for reliable pet care. It is important that you practice due diligence to ensure that you are using the services of a true professional pet sitter.
Finding a pet sitter to provide the right pet-care services requires an investment of time—time to do phone interviews, conduct an in-your-home meeting and thoroughly check references on those you’re considering hiring. Once you’ve made the best selection, we hope you’ll agree with the multitudes of other pet owners who say, “My pet sitter is worth her (or his) weight in gold!”

1. Does the pet sitter have the proper business license for your city or state, if required? Rules and regulations vary regarding what is required to legally operate a business. If your city or state requires a business license, any professional pet sitter you use should have a valid business license.
2. Is the pet sitter insured and bonded?  Ask for proof of coverage.
3. Can the pet sitter provide proof of clear criminal history?  Remember, the person you choose to hire will have access to your property and your beloved animal companion(s). Ask for third-party credentials that verify the sitter has a history of honesty and integrity. This documentation can provide the peace of mind you seek when admitting a new pet-care provider to your home.
4. Does the pet sitter provide client references?  Your pet sitter should have a list of references for potential clients to contact. Some pet sitters also include testimonials on their company website.
5. Will the pet sitter use a pet-sitting services agreement or contract?

A well-written contract outlines the details associated with each service the sitter will provide. The contract includes all fees along with the expected amount of time that will be spent with your pet(s). This ensures that both you and your sitter have agreed on and understand the level of service being provided in your absence.
6. Has the pet sitter participated in pet-care training, such as pet first aid?
Experience in caring for special needs pets or various types of pets is helpful if that is what you need.

Additional considerations:
Does the pet sitter keep regular office hours?  A professional pet sitter should have a schedule of office hours.   Many pet sitters are sole proprietors who use voicemail to field inquiries.  If you left a message inquiring about services, how soon was it returned?  All phone calls should be returned within 24 hours.
How much notice does the pet sitter need in order to schedule your request for a pet sitter?  Most pet sitters request at least two-weeks notice, but may be able to accommodate an occasional short- notice assignment.
Does the pet sitter have established fees for pet care they can quote over the phone and/or in company literature?  A professional pet sitter should have a published list of fees that cover the most common pet-care requests. Fees for special services may be worked out on a case-by-case basis.
How much time does the pet sitter spend in your home to care for your pet(s)?  The average in-home visit to care for one pet is approximately 30 minutes, but additional time may be required if you request special services such as dog walking, pet grooming, etc. or have a multiple pet household. Most pets require at least 2-3 visits per day if you are out of town.
Does the pet sitter have a website that you may peruse?  Many pet sitters have business websites to communicate with current and potential clients. It is an excellent way to provide information to pet owners and to offer the option of e-mail communication between owners and sitters.
What contingency plan does the pet sitter have in the event of inclement weather or natural disaster while caring for your pet(s)?  Every professional pet sitter should have a written disaster plan that addresses natural or man-made disasters, as well as a contingency plan to provide for your pet’s care if anything prevents the sitter from completing the assignment.
What does the pet sitter do if medical care is needed for your pet?  Arrangements should be made with your veterinarian and/or local emergency veterinary clinic to allow the sitter to seek medical attention for your pet while you are away.
How does the pet-sitting business screen and train their pet sitters?  When a pet-sitting business owner uses staff sitters, a careful employment screening process should be used to ensure that any of the company’s staff sitters who care for your pet are trained and equipped to provide the high-quality care you and your pet deserve.
During the in-home interview, does the pet sitter exhibit a positive attitude and seem comfortable and competent in caring for your pet(s)?  A positive attitude goes hand in hand with experience when it comes to in home pet care. As a result, you can feel at ease and look forward to the in-home pet care a professional pet sitter provides.
How will the pet sitter confirm your safe return home for the care of your pet(s)?
Your pet sitter should call to confirm that you have returned home at the expected time or ask that you call to confirm your return.
Will the pet sitter provide you with an evaluation or rating form of their services?
A service rating form, either left at your home or sent by e-mail, is the hallmark of a professional pet sitter who wants to ensure client satisfaction.