Pet Sitting Essentials You Should Know
If you are an animal lover, then pet-sitting would definitely be a very wonderful way to interact with animals without actually owning them. It is fun to have animals but difficult to travel with them and go on vacations. At such times, every pet owner will be on a lookout for a pet-sitter. Pet-sitting is also a neat way to make some extra cash for pocket money. For animal lovers, it will be a fulfilling and rewarding experience in itself. Here are some tips that you should know before you start pet-sitting.
1. Preparation
Preparedness is most essential when you take on the task of pet sitting. Most importantly, you must enjoy the company of a pet. Then only should you proceed. Make sure that you know well in advance when the owner wants you to do the sitting. This can help you prepare in terms of getting a cage or animal-proofing your house. It would any day be easier to keep the pet at home rather than keep visiting the owner's home to check on the pet. In case you have pets at home already, check whether the temporary pet arriving to your home would be incompatible with your own. If you have a cat, it would not make sense to have a dog to take care!
Researching about the animal or bird is also necessary. The owner will definitely give you some tips and advice, but it would be good to do some researching on your own. Be specific in your research. Do not stop at 'dog', 'cat' or 'fish'. Read about each type and species of animal or bird for they have varied characteristics and behaviors. For instance, if you have an aquarium of fishes, check for behaviors and nature before accepting other pet fishes into it for a while.
Another important detail is to see whether you are afraid of the pet. In case you are scared of cats or are allergic to them, it would be unfair to both, you and the pet if you accept to take care of it.
2. Interaction with the pet owner
It would be a good idea to interview the pet owner. Ask the owner very specific questions about the feeding times and habits of the pet. Seek information about the exercise schedule and the pet-hates and pet-loves. It is important to note if the pet has any allergies and special needs too.
Bring up the topic of payment only if you are running a business of taking care of pets or if taking care of the pet is going to be expensive. Even if you want payment, do not bring it up first when you speak with the owner. It will appear as though you are more interested in the money than in taking care of the pet.
Even once the owner leaves, it makes sense to be in touch every now and then to update about the pet and seek any information if necessary. In case of emergency also, keep the owner notified. Do not hesitate to call if the pet has got into a fight with a neighboring dog or has fallen off the wall. Take permission and advice before taking any decisions concerning the pet.
3. Interaction with other people/guests
It would only be fair to let your friends, family and other expected guests know if you have a pet at home. In this way, they can either reschedule or keep away in case of pet allergies. Also ensure that the visitors who arrive do not stress or trouble the pet in anyway.
4. Interaction with the pet
This is the most important aspect. Listen to the advice given by the pet owner. Treat the pet as if it is your own. If it is a fish or a love bird, you may just have to feed it. But a cat or a dog needs attention and caring. Play often with the pet. Keep the pet happy and that will show when the owner turns up after the vacation and the pet is not ready to leave your side that easily! Pets always need attention. Give them plenty of it. Exercise them regularly and do not forget to feed them.
When it comes to things like a bath or other grooming, consult with the owner as to when it should be done and how it should be done. Basically, you must keep in mind that the pet is not an object but another living member of your extended family.
