How to Choose a Pet Sitter (borrowed from homeguide.com)

EIGHT BASIC RULES FOR FINDING THE BEST SITTER FOR YOUR PETS

• Be sure the pet sitter is a professional. Ask if they belong to professional organizations such as NAPPS (National Association of Professional Pet Sitters), Professional United Pet Sitters (P.U.P.S.) or Association of Pet Sitting Excellence.

• Choose one that has a business license and is insured and bonded.

• Check the references you receive from the pet sitter or from your friends.

• Ask if they are trained in pet CPR and first aid.

• Arrange a meet and greet between your pet and the prospective pet sitter. They should get along. If your pet has to be coaxed to warm up to the pet sitter, choose someone else.

• They should present professional items such as contracts, payment arrangements, cancellation policies, and their plan during bad weather for taking your dog outside.

• If they are also acting as a house sitter, what are they willing to do around your house? Make sure everything is spelled out, so you both have the same understanding.

• Be sure you feel good about your choice. If you have any hesitation at all, choose someone else. This person is going to be in your home and taking care of your fur baby. You need to have confidence in them.