Updated on | by Critter Nets - Blogs
How to Choose the Best Pet Sitter While You’re on Vacation
Why Choosing the Right Pet Sitter Is So Important
When you're planning a vacation, your excitement shouldn’t be shadowed by worry over who will care for your pets. Leaving your dog, cat, or any animal with someone you trust is just as important as booking the perfect hotel.
A reliable pet sitter will:
- Keep your pets on their routine
- Provide companionship
- Handle emergencies
- Give you peace of mind
But how do you choose the right one Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Know What Type of Care You Need
Every pet and household is different. Decide what kind of service you’re looking for:
|
Type of Service |
Ideal For |
Includes |
|---|---|---|
|
In-home pet sitter |
Dogs, cats, small animals |
Pet stays at home; sitter visits or stays overnight |
|
Drop-in visits |
Cats, small dogs |
Sitter stops by for feeding, walking, litter cleanup |
|
Live-in care |
Pets who need 24/7 attention |
Sitter lives in your home while you’re away |
|
Pet boarding |
Social or highly active dogs |
Pet stays at sitter’s home or facility |
|
Doggy daycare + night sitter |
Dogs with separation anxiety |
Day care during working hours and sitter for overnight |
Choose the one that best suits your pet’s temperament, medical needs, and routine.
Step 2: Start Your Search Early
The best pet sitters book up fast—especially during:
- Holidays
- School breaks
- Long weekends
Start looking at least 2–4 weeks in advance (longer for major holidays). Use trusted platforms like:
- Rover, Wag (US-based)
- TrustedHousesitters, Pawshake (International)
- PetBackeror UrbanClap (India)
You can also ask for:
- Referrals from friends
- Local Facebook groups
- Veterinarian or groomer recommendations
Step 3: Check Credentials and Experience
A good pet sitter should have:
- Verified background checks(especially for in-home care)
- Experience with your pet’s species/breed
- First-aid training
- References or reviews
Don’t be afraid to ask:
“Have you cared for [senior dogs/puppies/cats with medication] before”
Also, check for certifications from:
- Pet Sitters International (PSI)
- National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS)
- Indian organizations like Professional Pet Groomers & Sitters Association of India (if applicable)
Step 4: Conduct an Interview
Set up a phone call or in-person meeting to ask questions like:
Essential Questions to Ask a Pet Sitter:
- How long have you been pet sitting
- Do you have experience with [your pet's breed or special needs]
- What does your daily visit include
- What will you do in case of an emergency
- Can you provide references
- Do you send updates and photos
- Are you insured or bonded
A professional sitter will welcome your questions and answer with confidence.
Step 5: Arrange a Meet-and-Greet
Before you book, schedule a trial meeting with your pet present. Watch how they interact:
- Does your pet feel comfortable
- Is the sitter confident in handling your pet
- Are they attentive to your instructions
This is also the time to:
- Show them around your home
- Explain your pet’s routine (feeding, walks, meds)
- Discuss access to keys or door codes
Tip: Provide a written care sheet with contact info, vet numbers, and emergency steps.
Step 6: Review the Terms and Fees
Make sure the sitter provides:
- A written agreement or service contract
- Clear breakdown of pricing (visits, overnights, holidays, extra pets)
- Cancellation policy
- Details about deposits or payment methods
In India, many pet sitters use UPI, Paytm, or Google Pay. International sitters may prefer PayPal, Venmo, or direct bank transfer.
Step 7: Stay Connected While You’re Away
A good pet sitter will:
- Send daily updates, photos, or videos
- Let you know of any changes in your pet’s behavior
- Inform you immediately in case of an emergency
Let them know how often you’d like updates—and feel free to check in.
Red Flags to Avoid
Be cautious if a sitter:
- Has no reviews or references
- Seems impatient or uninterested in your pet
- Doesn’t ask questions about your pet’s needs
- Avoids giving a written contract
- Refuses a meet-and-greet
Your pet’s care is too important to leave to someone who isn’t trustworthy.
Pet Sitter Checklist Before You Leave
Leave this info with your sitter:
Emergency contacts
Vet name and number
Feeding schedule
Medication instructions
Walk/play routine
Favorite toys or comfort items
Rules about furniture, guests, etc.
Your travel details and return date
Bonus: Consider a Backup Plan
Even the best sitters can face emergencies. Ask them:
“If something unexpected comes up, do you have a backup sitter”
It’s always wise to have a secondary contact just in case.
Conclusion: Give Yourself—and Your Pet—Peace of Mind
Going on vacation should feel exciting, not stressful. When you take the time to research, meet, and choose the right pet sitter, you can relax knowing your furry friend is safe, loved, and well cared for.
Whether you're gone for a weekend or a month, a trustworthy sitter becomes part of your pet's extended family.
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