Avoid These 5 Common Pet Sitting Mistakes

Pet sitting is an incredible way to travel, but it’s not as simple as cuddling cute animals and staying in fancy homes. Many first-time sitters make avoidable mistakes that can lead to stress, bad reviews, or even losing future opportunities. Here are five common pitfalls to avoid so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free sit.

1. Poor Communication with Homeowners

Pet sitting is built on trust, and good communication is key. Before the sit, ask all the important questions: feeding schedules, pet quirks, house rules, emergency contacts, and anything else relevant to the stay. Putting in the effort early to make sure what you can commit to matches up with the homeowners needs will help your sits run smoothly. During the sit, check in with regular updates – most owners love getting pet photos while they’re away!

2. Not Researching the Location

Before accepting a sit, do some homework on the area. Is there reliable public transport? A grocery store nearby? Any fun local attractions? If you’re in a remote area, you’ll want to plan ahead for supplies, and if you’re in a bustling city, check for parking and transport options. Being prepared makes the experience much smoother.

3. Underestimating Pet Care Responsibilities

Not all pet sits are the same. Some pets need medication, have separation anxiety, or need multiple walks a day. If you’re someone who likes to be out and about, or if you’re wanting to do lots of sight-seeing, a high-maintenance pet is not going to be the best fit. Before committing, ask how long pets can be left alone, what their routines are, and if they have any special care needs. Cats are generally able to be left alone for longer periods than dogs!

4. Failing to Keep the Home Tidy

Leaving a home in a mess is the fastest way to ruin your reputation. Always respect the space – clean up after yourself, take out the trash, and leave the house in the same (or better) condition than you found it. My general rule is to treat any home we stay in as if it was my own. A small effort goes a long way in getting glowing reviews and repeat sits!

5. Not Having a Backup Plan

Things don’t always go as planned. A pet might get sick, an appliance might break, or unexpected travel delays could occur. Always know where the nearest vet is, have emergency contacts handy, and communicate any issues with the homeowners as quickly as possible. A proactive approach keeps everyone happy and stress-free.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you build a great reputation and secure amazing sits all over the world. Want more insider tips and expert advice? Download my Ultimate Guide to Pet and House Sitting and start your journey as a successful sitter today!