In recent years, services for dog care through mobile apps have evolved significantly. Especially since the pandemic, as the number of new dog owners increased, many people are looking for solutions as they may soon have to return to the office.
At Petbnb, you'll find a carefully selected group of individuals offering dog care services, with detailed profiles, photos, and reviews from other customers. But what should you look for to find the ideal caregiver for your dog?
A good dog sitter should love dogs
The most important trait a good dog sitter should have is a genuine love for animals, especially dogs. How can you find that out? Start by reading the carefully crafted profile of the sitter.
Sometimes, the profile information alone is enough, but it’s advisable to arrange a meeting (“Meet & Greet”) to get to know the sitter and give your dog a first contact.
During this meeting, observe how the sitter interacts with your dog—whether they sit down to greet them, how they pet them, how they talk to them… These details will give you a better sense of whether the sitter truly enjoys the company of dogs or is just looking for extra income.
Dog Knowledge
Another important factor is the sitter's experience and knowledge in handling dogs. Find out if they have previous experience with other dogs, if they are or have been a dog owner themselves, if they have completed any training, or if they have read books on dog behavior and training.
They don’t need to be a professional dog trainer, but basic knowledge and prior experience are crucial for handling emergencies or unforeseen situations appropriately.
This is especially relevant when caring for puppies, whose needs differ greatly from those of adult dogs, or for dogs that require medication or have behavioral issues. Not every dog sitter is suitable for every dog.
Where will my dog be?
Although a dog sitter may seem perfect at first glance, you should also consider where your dog will be staying. Even if the dog sitter is great, it could be problematic for your dog if they are placed in a small apartment with four other dogs, for example.
Therefore, it's important to ask the sitter about their living situation, whether there are other animals in the household, and what safety measures are in place, especially if it's a house with a garden or yard.
Reviews and Experiences
To choose a good dog sitter, you should also consider the opinions of other pet owners about their services. Check the reviews on their profile as a dog sitter.
A lack of or few reviews doesn't necessarily mean they are not a good candidate, as everyone starts somewhere. However, reviews can help you determine if clients are satisfied with their work, what aspects are particularly highlighted, and whether they stay in regular contact with the owner or send photos throughout the day. They provide additional insights into how your dog will fare during their care.
Your Dog Sitter Shows Interest in Your Dog
Finally, it's important that a good dog sitter not only answers your questions but also shows a genuine interest in getting to know your dog and asking about their needs.
This indicates that they are a responsible person who is committed to providing your dog with maximum comfort and meeting all their needs during their stay in their home. So, if many questions are asked, it should not be seen as intrusive—on the contrary, it shows that the sitter wants to learn more about your furry friend!
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