Pet Sitter Interview Checklist

How long have you been sitting pets, and how many stays or visits like this one have you done?

Have you cared for a pet like mine before: this size, this age, this temperament?

Can I read recent reviews, or talk to an owner you have sat for?

Has a pet ever been hurt or sick in your care? What happened, and what did you do?

Who else lives in your home, and are there other pets or children?

Where will my pet sleep, and where will they be when you go out?

How long will my pet be alone at most in a day?

Is your yard fenced, and how do you handle doors, gates and walks?

How many pets do you host at the same time?

Are guest pets kept separate from your own, and how do you introduce them?

How long will each visit be, and what does a visit include?

For overnight stays, what hours will you be in the house?

How do you handle keys, alarm codes and locking up?

Will anyone else come to the house while I am away?

What do you do if a visit cannot happen on time (weather, car, illness)?

Can you follow my feeding schedule, and can you give medication if needed?

What do you do when a pet will not eat, or has an accident indoors?

How much exercise and play will my pet get, and where?

How do you handle a pet that is anxious, reactive or shy with strangers?

Which vet would you use in an emergency, and at what point do you call me?

What is your backup plan if you get sick or have to cancel?

Do you have pet first-aid training, or a kit in the house or car?

How often will you send updates, and in what form?

What do you need from me before the stay: records, food, gear, written instructions?

What is your cancellation policy, and exactly what does the booking include?

Which vaccinations do you require, and do you want to see the records?

Do you walk dogs one at a time or in groups, and how many at once?

What equipment do you use, and what do you do if a dog slips a collar or harness?

How do you handle off-leash dogs, bikes and other triggers on the route?