Key Considerations for Last-Minute Dog Sitting (Emergencies)

We’ve all been there – a last minute emergency has come up and you’re scrambling to figure out dog care. Family and friends aren’t available, you don’t trust your neighbors, so what do you do? Have a top 5 list of sitters who are usually flexible and responsive, have all of your dogs care instructions pre written digitally and printed, and have any equipment that you need to send with them (leashes, collars, whatever else they need) stored in the same spot always. As you compile this list of your top 5 sitter, here are some things to consider:

Reliability and Trustworthiness
Your dog’s well-being is paramount, so you need a sitter you can trust. Look for sitters with strong reviews, references, and background checks to ensure they’re reliable and responsible. This isn’t going to happen if you have to be on the next flight to wherever it is you’re going in a couple of hours so this must be done in advance.

Availability
In an emergency, availability is a top priority. Opt for services and sitters who offer 24/7 availability or specialize in last-minute bookings. Do not have anyone on the list who only sits one dog at a time – they often have spotty availability, and do not include anyone on the list who works a regular office job that they must go in to work for. They are not going to prioritize your dog sitting needs over their job security.

Experience and Skills
Experience with dogs, especially those similar to yours in size, breed, and temperament, is essential. A sitter with the right skills can handle your dog’s specific needs, from administering medication to managing anxiety. You should leave the sitter’s house confident that they will manage situations that may come up as well or better than you as this is what they do professionally/semi professionally.

Cost
Emergency services can sometimes be pricier than regular bookings. It’s wise to have a budget in mind but be prepared for potential additional costs for last-minute arrangements. Now is not the time to pinch pennies because, as I’ve said many times, having a sitter decide they don’t feel like sitting your dog anymore can be extremely costly and emotionally draining.

Finding Last-Minute Dog Sitting: Strategies and Resources
1. Utilize Dog Sitting Apps and Websites
In the digital age, several apps and websites can connect you with dog sitters quickly. Here are some popular options:

Rover
Rover is one of the most well-known dog sitting platforms, offering a vast network of sitters across various locations. With its last-minute booking feature, you can find a sitter in no time. The platform allows you to filter sitters based on your needs, read reviews, and communicate directly through the app. This is the largest network and the one I use both for booking stays for my dog as well as operating as a sitter.

Wag!
Wag! is another excellent app for finding dog sitters and walkers. Known for its on-demand services, Wag! can be a lifesaver in emergencies. The app provides detailed profiles of sitters, including their experience, certifications, and user reviews.

Care.com
Care.com offers a broader range of services, including pet sitting. You can search for local sitters, check their availability, and read reviews from other pet owners. The platform also offers background checks for added peace of mind.

2. Leverage Social Media and Community Networks
Social media platforms and community networks can be invaluable when seeking last-minute dog sitting. Here’s how to use them effectively:

Facebook Groups
Join local pet owner groups on Facebook. These groups often have members who offer dog sitting services or can recommend trusted sitters. Posting about your urgent need can yield quick responses and suggestions.

Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a neighborhood-focused social network where you can connect with people in your area. Use it to ask for recommendations or find nearby dog sitters who might be available on short notice. Nextdoor is really a last resort and not something I especially recommend. It is also not really designed for dog sitting or dog sitting recommendations so but in a pinch someone may respond or have an idea.

3. Reach Out to Local Pet Boarding Facilities
Many pet boarding facilities offer emergency services for situations like yours. These facilities are equipped to handle pets for short-term stays, ensuring they are safe and cared for. While this option might be more expensive, it’s a reliable solution in urgent scenarios. However, boarding facilities can be very inflexible about taking dogs, vaccine documentation, etc. If you plan to use a boarding facility as a potential last minute option, establish yourself as a regular client with them, inquire about their policies around last minute boarding and hours of availability for drop off. Due to the red tape that many boarding facilities have, I would generally not recommend them.

4. Contact Your Veterinarian
Veterinarians often have networks of pet care providers, including emergency dog sitters. Your vet can recommend trusted sitters or even offer boarding services if they have the facilities. Additionally, having a sitter who is familiar with your dog’s medical history can be beneficial.

Preparing for Last-Minute Dog Sitting
Preparation can make a significant difference when you need to find a dog sitter quickly. Here are steps to ensure you’re ready for any emergency:

Create a Dog Care Kit
Prepare a kit with everything a sitter might need, including:

Food and feeding instructions
Medications and administration guidelines, if applicable
Leash, collar, and harness
Favorite toys and blankets
Emergency contact information (vet, family members)

Write Detailed Care Instructions
Having written instructions ready can save time and ensure your dog receives proper care. Include details about feeding schedules, exercise routines, medical needs, and any behavioral quirks.

Keep Important Documents Accessible
Ensure that your dog’s medical records, vaccination history, and emergency contact list are easily accessible. This information can be crucial for sitters, especially if your dog has health issues.

Conclusion
It’s nerve racking to leave your dog with little time to prepare; however, taking the steps outlined above is going to position you to do so with confidence. At the end of the day, not everything is in our control but having the big things taken care of is going to be a great way to leave your dog knowing that they are getting the best care possible.