What to Ask a Pet Sitter Before You Hire Them
Ask about their experience with your specific pet type and any health needs
Before you hand over your keys, find out whether the sitter has actually worked with dogs, cats, birds, or whatever you have — and whether they have handled the particular issues your pet has. A sitter who has managed diabetic cats or anxious dogs will know what to watch for and what to do if something goes wrong. Ask how many years they have been sitting, how many pets they typically care for at once, and whether they have experience with your pet's age group (puppies and senior animals need different handling).
If your pet takes medication, has a dietary restriction, or needs special handling because of behavior or health, describe the situation and ask the sitter to walk you through exactly how they would manage it. Listen for whether they ask clarifying questions or seem confident they already know. A sitter who asks is paying attention. A sitter who nods without asking may not be.
Key Takeaways
- Ask the sitter directly about their experience with your pet's species, age, and any health conditions or behavioral issues before you book.
- Request references from recent clients and contact at least two of them to ask about reliability, communication, and how their pets reacted.
- Confirm the sitter's cancellation policy, what happens if they get sick, and whether they have a backup sitter or plan for emergencies.
- Establish exactly what the sitter will do during each visit — how long they stay, what activities they do with your pet, and how they will communicate with you.
- Verify that the sitter has liability insurance and ask what they would do if your pet got injured, escaped, or had a medical emergency while in their care.
Check references from people who have actually used them
Ask for the names and phone numbers of at least two recent clients — people who hired the sitter in the last six months. Call them. Ask whether the sitter showed up on time, whether their pet seemed happy to see the sitter, and whether the sitter communicated clearly about what happened during visits. Ask whether the sitter has ever cancelled last-minute or missed a scheduled visit. Ask whether they would hire this sitter again.
A sitter who hesitates to give references or offers only one name is a sign to keep looking. People who do good work have clients willing to vouch for them. If you cannot reach the references or they give vague answers, that is information too.
Understand their cancellation policy and backup plan
Ask what happens if the sitter gets sick, has a family emergency, or needs to cancel. Do they have a backup sitter they call? Do they tell you immediately or wait until the morning of? How much notice do they give you if they cannot make a visit? What is their policy if you need to cancel — do you lose the money, or can you reschedule?
A professional sitter has a plan for this. They either have a trusted backup they have trained, or they have a clear process for notifying you as soon as they know they cannot come. A sitter who says "I have never cancelled" is not being realistic. A sitter who says "I will figure it out" is not being responsible.
Confirm what actually happens during each visit
Ask the sitter to describe a typical visit in detail. How long do they stay? Do they just feed and water the pet, or do they also play, walk, or provide other care? Where will your pet be during the visit — loose in the house, in a crate, outside? Will the sitter take photos or videos, and if so, how often will they send them to you?
Get the answer in writing or in a message you can save. Different sitters offer different levels of care, and you need to know exactly what you are paying for. A 15-minute visit is not the same as a 45-minute visit. A sitter who takes your dog for a walk is not the same as a sitter who lets the dog out in the yard. Confirm the details before you book, not after.
Ask about insurance and what they do in an emergency
Ask whether the sitter carries liability insurance. This covers damage or injury that happens while they are caring for your pet. Ask what they would do if your pet got injured, escaped, or had a medical emergency during a visit. Would they take your pet to the vet immediately? Do they have authorization to spend money on emergency care, or would they call you first? What is the maximum they would spend without asking?
Get the name and address of the nearest emergency vet clinic and confirm the sitter knows where it is. Ask whether they have ever had to take a pet to the vet and what happened. A sitter who has handled an emergency before will be calmer and more prepared if one happens with your pet.
Verify how they will communicate with you
Ask how the sitter will keep you informed while you are away. Will they text you after each visit? Send photos? Call if something seems off? How quickly will they respond if you text them with a question? What is their policy if you cannot reach them — do they check messages during the day, or only at certain times?
Establish a communication method that works for both of you before the first visit. If you are the type who wants daily updates, hire a sitter who is comfortable sending them. If you prefer minimal contact, find a sitter who respects that. Mismatched expectations about communication cause most conflicts between sitters and pet owners.
Ask about their policies on access to your home
Ask how the sitter will get into your home. Will you give them a key, or will they use a keypad code? What do they do with the key or code when they are not using it — do they keep it secure, or do they share it with anyone? Ask whether they have ever had a key lost or misplaced. Ask what they do if they accidentally lock themselves in or out of your home.
Also ask whether the sitter is comfortable being in your home alone, and whether they have any restrictions on which areas of the house they can access. Some sitters will not go into bedrooms or offices. Some owners do not want the sitter in certain rooms. Clarify these boundaries upfront so there are no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I do a trial visit before I leave town?
Yes, if possible. Have the sitter come for a regular visit while you are home or nearby. Watch how they interact with your pet, whether they follow your instructions, and whether your pet seems comfortable with them. This is your chance to see the sitter in action and to catch any red flags before you depend on them for an overnight or multi-day trip.
What should I leave for the sitter in case of emergency?
Leave your vet's name, address, and phone number. Leave your cell phone number and the number of a trusted friend or family member who can make decisions if you cannot be reached. Leave any medical information about your pet — allergies, medications, chronic conditions. Leave written instructions for feeding, exercise, and any behavioral issues. Leave your pet's microchip number and a recent photo in case they escape.
Is it normal for a pet sitter to ask for a key to my house?
Yes. Most sitters ask for a key or a keypad code so they can get in without you having to be home. Ask how they store the key and whether they have ever lost one. Some sitters use a lockbox or a key safe. Ask what their policy is if the key goes missing — do they pay to change your locks?
What if my pet has never been left with a sitter before?
Tell the sitter this upfront. Ask whether they have experience with pets who are anxious or reactive to strangers. A good sitter will take extra time on the first visit to let your pet get used to them. They may suggest shorter visits at first, or they may recommend a trial visit while you are home. Do not hire a sitter who brushes off this concern.
Can I ask the sitter to do other tasks besides pet care?
You can ask, but expect to pay more. Some sitters will water plants, bring in mail, or turn lights on and off. Others only do pet care. Discuss any extra tasks before you book and confirm the additional cost. Do not assume the sitter will do these things without asking.