Being
separated from your dog can be a very stressful time. Finding the perfect
person to care for your pet when you cannot is key to lowering stress for both
of you. Many people find dog sitting a great way to earn additional income, but
when considering a care taker, you want much more than a person just looking to
earn extra cash.
The
best dog sitters have a love for animals, are organized and creative and are
extremely flexible and patient. Here are 7 habits of highly awesome dog
sitters:
1.
They know the value of preliminary introductions. Awesome dog sitters
understand the importance of first impressions. Before their clients spend
extended time in their care, great dog sitters will make time to introduce
themselves to the pets they will be caring for. This helps to alleviate anxiety
in both pets and their owners. It allows the dog to become familiar with a new
care taker and gives the owner an opportunity to make sure the sitter is a good
match for their pet.
2.
They understand the importance of mental and physical stimulation. Long walks
are a great way to relieve stress and anxiety in dogs - especially when
separated from their families. Experienced sitters understand the importance of
physical activity and mental stimulation. A simple game of fetch can accomplish
both - keeping dogs happy and healthy and expending the energy of the most
energetic pet.
3.
They keep you updated. Dog sitters should take the time to find out how often
you would like updates on your dog, what types of updates you prefer to receive
and how you want to receive them (via text message, email, Skype, etc.).
Awesome care takers will work with you to establish an appropriate communication
schedule.
4.
They have a great reputation. Excellent dog sitters have established a
reputation of excellence. They have no hesitation in providing character or
professional references that can vouch for their experience. They are
comfortable providing a list of people whom you can contact prior to leaving
your dog in their care.
5.
They are clear on your expectations. Understanding your expectations is key to
a pleasurable experience for you and your dog watcher. Top-notch dog sitters
make it a priority to understand grooming, feeding, discipline and exercise
requirements to minimize disruption in your dog's routine.
6.
They are detail oriented. Having a plan for emergencies, keeping track of
medicine schedules and likes and dislikes of your dog are all details your
sitter will need to manage. Great care takers are organized and maintain
attention to the important details involved in properly caring for your dog.
7.
They are trustworthy. In addition to caring for your dog, many times dog
sitters will have access to your home. Good sitters do not take this
responsibility lightly. They treat your home with the same respect they give to
their own homes. They clean up any messes your dog makes and are careful to
lock your doors and arm security monitors appropriately.
Using
the 7 habits of highly awesome dog sitters, you will be able to select a care
taker that will ensure the healthiness and happiness of you and your dog.
