Looking for a dog walker or pet sitter? A professional pet sitting and dog walking company will schedule an Registration Meeting with you prior to accepting the service. The Registration Meeting allows the company to meet your pet(s), obtain detailed pet information, and complete the pet-sitting contract. This meeting also gives you an opportunity to ask important questions and allows both you and the pet care company to ensure they are the “right fit” for you and your pet’s needs.

  1. Does the business have a license to operate in Colorado? Requirements for legally operating a small business vary by location, but professional pet- providers should maintain any required local and state business licenses or permits.
  2. Does the company have proof of insurance coverage? Pet care providers should maintain general liability insurance designed specifically for pet sitters and dog walkers. The insurance should cover all services they provide and include coverage for both clients’ pets and personal property. The company should also maintain bonding or coverage for theft.
  3. Can the company provide proof of a background check or clear criminal history? Pet care businesses with teams should adequately screen and obtain proof of clear criminal history for any team member assigned to enter a clients’ home. Please note that privacy laws may prevent business owners from sharing copies of staff background checks with you.
  4. Does the company use a pet sitting contract or service agreement? Pet care providers should have a legally compliant contract to use with all clients to document agreed upon terms of service and establish clear expectations for both parties. They may complete this contract with you in person at the Registration Meeting or have you complete the contract online through a pet sitter software portal.
  5. What is the company’s new client onboarding process? In addition to completing a service agreement, the pet care provider should collect detailed information about each pet that will be in their care. They should also provide you with clear service descriptions, a visit schedule and pricing before care begins, and ensure you have been informed of the company’s policies and procedures regarding liability, payment options, cancellations, veterinary consent, and emergency procedures.
  6. What type of training have the company’s employees and management completed, and how do they stay current on best practices? Pet care providers should have adequate experience and training in pet behavior, first aid and CPR to ensure safety and well-being of pets in their care. They should also demonstrate commitment to professional development for themselves and any employees to ensure their skills and knowledge stay current. Ask about specific trainings they’ve completed, as well as any industry certifications they’ve obtained, such as the Certified Professional Pet Sitter® designation and Fear Free Pet Sitter Certification.
  7. What emergency, safety, and security policies does the company have in place? Pet care providers should have policies in place to ensure your client data, lock box, alarm codes, and credit card information are stored securely. They should also have documented contingency plans for pet illness or injury, and sitter illness or injury, as well as a backup plan for your pet’s care should an emergency prevent them from completing service.
  8. Are you able to access reviews from current or past clients? Due to privacy laws, it’s no longer common practice for pet care providers to share their client contact information for you to request client references; however, the company should be able to point you to client reviews or testimonials on their website and on public platforms such as Google, Facebook or NextDoor.
  9. Is the company a member of a professional organization or educational association such as Pet Sitters International or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters? Maintaining active membership in these organizations is a sign of the pet care provider’s commitment to their profession and to high industry standards. It also helps them stay informed on best practices, standards, and continuing education opportunities, so they can provide the best possible care for your pet(s).