Choosing a Pet Sitter for Your Puppy: Key Considerations and Tips

Introduction

While there are numerous articles on this site discussing what to look for in the dog sitter, there are several things specific to puppies (generally dogs under 9 months) that you should consider when looking for a sitter for your puppy.

1. Experience and Expertise
When entrusting someone with the care of your puppy, experience matters. Look for pet sitters who have a proven track record of caring for puppies specifically. Experience can equip a pet sitter with the knowledge and skills to handle various situations that may arise, from administering medication to dealing with behavioral issues. Specifically, look for sitters who are not going to try to “parent for you” – you do not want harsh corrections delivered for behaviors that you are not worried about. It can help to clarify what the sitter’s approach to certain situations like puppy biting, accidents in the house, etc.

2. Safety and Security Measures

The safety and security of your puppy should be a top priority. Discuss with the pet sitter the measures they have in place to ensure your puppy’s well-being, both at home and during outdoor activities. This may include secure fencing, supervision protocols, and emergency procedures. Many sitters do not verify vaccination records for their dog sitting clients (me included) which is because the rabies vaccine is required by law and many of the rest of the vaccines are either optional or the vet will heavily encourage. If your puppy has not been fully vaccinated, make sure the sitter is aware of this and either will not be sitting other dogs at the same time or that the sitter has verified vaccinations for the other dogs being sat. Parovirus in particular can be lethal for puppies and they should not be around unvaccinated dogs.

3. Emergency Preparedness
Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, so it’s crucial to ensure that your pet sitter is prepared to handle them effectively. Inquire about their familiarity with common pet emergencies and their plan of action in such situations. Provide detailed instructions on how to contact you or your designated emergency contact if needed.

4. Pricing and Payment
While cost is undoubtedly a factor to consider, prioritize quality and peace of mind over price alone when choosing a pet sitter for your puppy. Discuss pricing upfront and ensure clarity on what services are included in the fee. Sitters who take puppies generally are going to charge more especially if your puppy is not yet potty trained. Remember that investing in your puppy’s well-being is a worthwhile expense. Don’t go with the cheapest sitters unless you’ve verified through previous experience that they are good at sitting puppies and don’t mind the extra work associated.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pet sitter for your puppy is a decision that requires careful consideration and research. By evaluating factors such as experience, qualifications, compatibility, and safety measures, you can find a trustworthy pet sitter who will provide your puppy with the love, attention, and care it deserves. Remember to plan ahead, communicate effectively, and prioritize your puppy’s comfort and happiness above all else. With the right pet sitter by your side, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is in good hands while you’re away.