Leaving your pet in someone else’s care is a big deal. Whether you’re hiring a professional or asking a friend, you want to be sure your pet is in safe, responsible hands. A great pet sitter will provide care, attention, and reliability—but the wrong one can put your pet’s well-being at risk.
To help you choose wisely, here are 10 red flags to watch for when picking a pet sitter.
1. No References or Reviews
If a sitter can’t provide references or has no online reviews, that’s a major warning sign. Always check testimonials from other pet owners and ask for direct references before hiring someone.
2. They Aren’t Insured or Bonded
Professional pet sitters should have liability insurance and bonding to cover accidents or emergencies. If they don’t, you could be left dealing with vet bills or property damage.
3. They Don’t Ask About Your Pet’s Needs
A responsible pet sitter will ask about your pet’s routine, diet, medical needs, and behavior quirks. If they don’t seem interested in your pet’s specific care instructions, they may not be attentive enough.
4. They Have No Emergency Plan
A good sitter should know what to do in case of illness, injury, or an emergency. If they don’t have a plan or don’t know where the nearest emergency vet is, think twice before trusting them.
5. They’re Uncomfortable Around Animals
Watch how they interact with your pet. If they seem unsure, hesitant, or don’t engage, they may not have the experience or comfort level needed to handle different pet personalities.
6. They’re Always Late or Unreliable
If a sitter shows up late for a meet-and-greet or seems disorganized, that’s a bad sign. Timeliness is crucial when caring for pets, especially when it comes to feeding and potty schedules.
7. They Don’t Follow Instructions
If a sitter dismisses or forgets details you’ve provided, they may not be dependable. A great sitter takes notes, asks questions, and follows your guidelines carefully.
8. They Allow Too Many Pets at Once
Some pet sitters take on too many pets at a time, leading to neglect or accidents. If they’re juggling multiple clients at once, make sure your pet will still get the attention they need.
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9. They Don’t Provide Updates
A good sitter will send photos, texts, or quick updates about your pet. If they resist communication or are hard to reach, they may not be as responsible as they claim.
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10. Your Pet Acts Fearful Around Them
Trust your pet’s instincts. If your normally friendly pet seems anxious, hides, or acts differently around the sitter, it could be a sign something isn’t right.
Choosing the right pet sitter is about more than convenience—it’s about trust and safety. By keeping an eye out for these red flags, you can find a sitter who will care for your pet like family, giving you peace of mind while you’re away.
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