Hey Dog Side Family,
We all know that our dogs are more than just pets - they're family. And just like family, you want to make sure you hire the right person to take care of your pup when you're away. I ran a very successful dog walking business for over a decade. That's why my dogs and I put together a list of five tips to help you find the perfect dog walker or pet sitter to make sure you enjoy your time away.
Make sure the person you hire is insured if something happens to your dog or your home. Accidents can happen, even with the most well-behaved dogs. Recently a friend almost lost her whole house because her dog reached up on the stove and bumped a pizza box on the fire and there ya go. It's important to make sure the person you hire has insurance in case something goes wrong. This will not only give you peace of mind, but it will also protect you, your house, and your pup in case of an emergency.
Ask for references. Don't be afraid to ask for references from other clients the person has worked with. This will give you an idea of their experience and how they interact with other dogs.
Find out if your dog will be walked alone or in a group of dogs. Some dogs do better in group settings, while others prefer to walk alone. Make sure you know what your dog's preferences are and find a dog walker or pet sitter who can accommodate them and their needs.
Check their availability. Make sure the person you hire can work with your schedule and is available when you need them. If they have other clients, make sure their schedule allows for enough time to properly care for your dog each visit.
Trust your instincts. At the end of the day, you know your dog best. If something doesn't feel right about the person you're considering hiring, trust your gut and keep looking.
By following these tips, you can find the perfect dog walker or pet sitter for your furry friend.
P.S. Have you ever thought about starting your own dog walking business? We have an ebook on How to Start a Dog Walking Business that might interest you. Check it out and let us know what you think!
Head rubs and belly scratches,
Gary, Monkey, and Lily