10 Questions You Should Ask A Pet Sitter and Dog Walker
1. Do You Have Proof of Liability Insurance (Are You Bonded)?
A Pet Sitter/Dog Walker that isn’t insured and bonded doesn’t have the proper protection. Make sure the candidate you are considering took the necessary steps to get this protection and provide proof of Insurance. If they have other sitters or employees workings for them, they should be insured through the pet sitter or pet sitting company as well.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Yes. The Savvy Sitter is fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and all team members are covered under our company policy. This protects you, your home, and your pets in the unlikely event of an accident or emergency. Proof of insurance is available upon request.
2. What Animal Experience or Training Do You have? Classes or Certifications?
You don’t want to leave your furry friend with someone who lacks experience and adequate training. That’s why you need to look for a sitter/walker that:
- Already has lots of experience working with animals, especially your specific type of pet.
- Understands how to read a pet’s body language.
- How long have you been in business as a Pet Sitter.
- Knows how to administer First Aid and Pet CPR/CPCR.
- Plus have a Pet First Aid Kit.
- Classes and Certifications
- Is awarded by a professional organization or other non-governmental body, such as Pet Sitters International or NAPPS.
- Completed education and competency to do a specific job, often through a final examination process.
- UCF also has a Course “Start a Pet Sitting Business”, which covers general Pet Care, First Aid and How to Run a Pet Sitting and Dog Walking company.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Our team members are carefully vetted and trained before providing care. Savanna Westwood, Owner & Founder, is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) through Pet Sitters International and holds certifications in Pet First Aid & CPR/CPCR.
Our Sitters:
- Have hands-on experience with dogs, cats, and small animals.
- Are trained to read pet body language and stress signals.
- Carry pet first aid kits during services.
- Follow detailed visit notes and care instructions.
- Certifications in FWC, Vet Technicians, and other appropriate programs,
- Continued Education Opportunities
3. What Would You Do If My Pet Had An Emergency?
When caring for animals, you never know what could happen, making it vitally important to plan for emergencies. You can find out more about the sitter’s emergency plan by asking what he or she would do if your pet gets into trouble. This emergency contact information and instructions should be on the Service Agreement or Contract as well. If your potential sitter doesn’t have a plan, look for another candidate.
You should also find out if the sitter relies on a specific emergency veterinarian. If not, the sitter should request your own emergency vet’s contact information and location.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
We have a clear, written emergency protocol outlined in our Service Agreement.
In an emergency, we:
- Assess the situation and provide first aid if appropriate
- Contact you immediately
- Transport your pet to your designated veterinarian or emergency clinic
- If unreachable, follow the emergency authorization provided in your agreement
Savvy Policy Note: Emergency contacts, vet details, and authorization must be completed before services begin.
4. What Services Do You Offer?
If you need additional services, don’t just assume the pet sitter will offer them. You will need to make sure those services will be provided.
Services may or may not include:
- In-Home Grooming
- Watering Plants
- Medicine Administration
- Picking Up the Mail or Packages
- Pet Taxi Services
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
We offer customized, in-home pet care services, including:
- Dog Walking
- Drop-In pet sitting
- Pet Taxi
- Medication Administration
- Mail/Package retrieval
- Home checks
- Holiday services
All services must be scheduled and approved in advance.
5. Can You Care For My Pet With Special Needs?
Every pet is unique, with its own specific needs. For example, your pet might require medicine. Or, maybe your furry friend is accustomed to following a specific walking routine. Whatever the case may be, you should let the potential sitter know about your pet’s unique needs verbally and in writing. After explaining those needs, ask the sitter if he or she will be able to meet them.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Yes – with full disclosure and written instructions. We regularly care for pets who require:
- Medication
- Special feeding routines
- Mobility assistance
- Behavioral accommodations
During your Meet & Greet, we review all care requirements to ensure we are the right fit.
6. What About Walking My Dog?
If your sitter will be taking your dog for walks, ask for more detailed information about this service. You should find out where the sitter plans to walk your pooch and how long the walk will last. This information will help you determine the sitter’s capability of meeting your dog’s exercise needs. They should also advise and be knowledgeable about leashes, harnesses, and collars and oftentimes will have their own.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Dog walks are tailored to your pet’s needs, weather conditions, and neighborhood safety.
Our walkers:
- Use company approved leashes, collars, or harnesses
- Walk within your neighborhood unless otherwise agreed
- Adjust pace and duration based on your dog’s age and energy
- Never visit dog parks unless explicitly approved
Safety always comes first.
7. Do You Have References and Reviews? How many years have you been in Business?
Talking with other clients who have already entrusted their pets to the sitter is one of the best ways to learn more about that person, so don’t forget to ask for references. The pet sitter should be eager to provide them. If the candidate appears to hesitate, that’s probably not a good sign. Additionally, check their Social Media and other Reviews online.
When considering hiring a pet sitter or dog walker, one crucial question to ask is how many years they have been in business. The number of years a pet care professional has been operating can serve as an indicator of their experience, reliability, and ability to handle a variety of pet care situations. An established business with several years of experience is more likely to have developed comprehensive protocols for pet safety, emergency situations, and customer service. Additionally, longevity in the industry often reflects a positive reputation and a strong client base, which can provide peace of mind knowing that your pet will be in capable hands.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Yes. The Savvy Sitter has been proudly serving the Winter Garden, Windermere, and Horizon West areas for nearly a decade, with over 220+ five-star Google reviews.
We encourage clients to:
- Read our Google Reviews
- Check our Social Media presence
- Ask for Testimonials
Longevity in the industry reflects trust, reliability, and consistency.
8. Will You Meet with Me and My Pet Ahead of Time? AKA “Meet and Greet”
If you are conducting this interview in person, the sitter/walker is probably at your house and has already interacted with your pet. In that case, there’s no reason to ask this question, but if this is a phone interview you will need to schedule a time for the sitter to come and meet your beloved pet. If the sitter doesn’t agree to this, look for another candidate.
However, if the sitter/walker does agree to meet your pet, pay close attention to how well they get along with each other. Although they probably won’t be the best of friends right away, you do want to make sure your pet feels at ease with the sitter/walker. Additionally, the ultimate goal for a sitter/walker is to develop a strong relationship with your pet, but this won’t be fully accomplished during the first meeting. Often the first several visits your pet may be unsure of what is going on, may not eat, or show different behaviors. They should notify you of any odd behaviors, both before service and during visits.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Absolutely. A Meet & Greet is required and is a paid service before any pet sitting or dog walking services begin.
This allows us to:
- Meet your pet in their home environment, where services will take place
- Review daily routines, feeding instructions, medications, and preferences
- Go over keys, access codes, alarms, and home procedures
- Identify safety concerns and discuss emergency plans
- Ensure the sitter, pet, and client are all comfortable and set up for success
Why is there a charge?
The Meet & Greet is not just a quick hello—it is a professional onboarding appointment. This time is reserved exclusively for you, conducted by a trained team member, and includes reviewing your pet’s care profile and service requirements. Charging for this service allows us to:
- Compensate our sitters fairly for their time and expertise
- Provide a thorough, unrushed visit focused on your pet’s needs
- Maintain consistent, professional standards across all clients
- Ensure reliable scheduling and accountability
Savvy Policy Note:
Pets may take time to adjust to a new caregiver. It is common for pets to display changes in behavior or appetite during the first few visits. We closely observe these changes and always communicate updates to keep you informed and at ease.
9. Are You Well-Connected in the Pet Industry and Local Community? Are you affiliated with any Professional Associations?
A Sitter or Walker should be well connected with other pet services and industries from local vets, groomers, other pet sitters and dog walkers, trainers, and other niche services. A Professional Pet Sitter should always be a resource to you and your pet, as well as provide knowledge to help better care for your pet. Additionally, being part of a Professional Pet Sitting Association such as Pet Sitters International (PSI), the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), and the Florida Pet Services Association (FPSA) shows the commitment to continued education and professional services in the pet care industry.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Yes. We are proud members of:
- Pet Sitters International (PSI)
- National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS)
Fear Free Certification - Florida Pet Services Association (FPSA)
Savanna also serves in leadership roles within the pet care industry and maintains relationships with:
- Local veterinarians
- Trainers
- Groomers
- Fellow Pet Professionals
We are always happy to provide trusted referrals.
Our Savvy Preferred Partners are hand-selected professionals we trust with our clients and their pets. Looking for a recommendation or interested in partnering with us?
👉 Get in touch to connect with our Savvy Preferred Partners: https://thesavvysitter.org/purr-ferred-partners
10. Do You Have Any Questions for Me?
If the pet sitter or dog walker hasn’t already asked you some questions, that may not be a good sign. Why? Because asking questions is essential for providing excellent service. After all, how can the sitter properly care for your pet if he or she doesn’t have all the necessary information? Furthermore, asking questions proves the sitter has enough experience in the field to know what information will be necessary for carrying out the job.
If the candidate hasn’t asked questions yet, don’t give up. Perhaps the sitter is being polite and letting you talk first. So, give the candidate a chance by asking if he or she has any questions for you. Obviously, the answer should be yes!
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
Yes—and lots of them! Asking questions is essential for excellent care. If a sitter doesn’t ask about your pet’s habits, health, or home, that’s a red flag.
We believe great care starts with great communication.
Bonus Questions: Independent Contractors (ICs) vs. Employees
When choosing a pet sitting and dog walking company, one key factor is whether they hire independent contractors (ICs) or employees. Both models have pros and cons that impact the level of service, reliability, and overall experience for pet owners.
| Factor | Independent Contractors (ICs) | Employees |
| Cost to Company | Lower costs (no payroll taxes, workers’ comp, or benefits). | Higher costs (payroll taxes, workers’ comp, benefits). |
| Scheduling Flexibility | ICs set their own hours, may be more flexible. | Employees have set shifts, may have limited last-minute availability. |
| Experience Level | May be more experienced, often work for multiple companies. | May be newer but receive company training. |
| Quality Control & Training | Company cannot mandate training or enforce strict policies. | Company provides training and ensures service consistency. |
| Availability & Reliability | ICs can refuse jobs, leading to inconsistency. | Employees are scheduled and must complete assigned visits. |
| Accountability | Limited accountability, harder to resolve issues. | Directly employed, making issue resolution easier. |
| Insurance & Liability | ICs may need their own insurance, company coverage may be limited. | Fully covered under company’s workers’ comp and liability insurance. |
| Customer Service | May vary based on individual IC’s approach. | Consistent, as employees represent the company directly. |
Which Option is Best?
- If quality control, reliability, and accountability matter most → A company with employees is likely the better choice.
- If flexibility and lower cost are more important → A company using ICs might work, but ensure they have strong vetting and oversight.
The Savvy Sitter Answer:
The Savvy Sitter uses trained employees operating under company standards and policies, ensuring:
- Consistent care
- Accountability
- Insurance coverage
- Reliable scheduling
We believe this model provides the best experience for pets and owners alike.
In Conclusion
Now that you know what questions to ask a potential sitter, you are ready to find the perfect fit for your beloved fur baby. This ensures your pet will be left in good hands.
Ready to Get Started With Us?
Choosing the right pet sitter is an important decision, and it all starts with a proper introduction. Our Meet & Greet allows us to get to know you, your pet, and your home so we can provide safe, reliable, and personalized care from day one.
👉 Schedule your Meet & Greet or Warm Call to get started with The Savvy Sitter today: https://thesavvysitter.org/contact
About the Author:
Savanna Westwood
Savanna Westwood is the Owner and Founder of The Savvy Sitter, Pet Sitting and Dog Walking, LLC. She has grown up with animals all her life and enjoys spending time with them. Savanna has lived in the Winter Garden and Windermere Area for over 30 years. When she is not taking care of Fur Friends, one can find her reading, practicing archery, riding, and devising ways to provide additional and excellent services to clients. Savanna is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter with Pet Sitter International's CPPS certification and also holds certification in Pet First Aid and CPCR for Pet-Care Professionals.
This gives the pet sitter time to get to know you and your pet. Do they have multiple references and experience? Ask for multiple references and be sure to call them!
Do I need to have the meet and greet at their house?
We would recommend it for board/kenneling and Pet Sitters that are servicing your pet(s) in your home.
hi,i would just like to ask you if i would need to require our dog-sitter with some kind of (will,or some kind of letter,that if my partner or i died in a car crash/anything else)that she would find a home for our 11 year old dog(who has health problems)as i worry constantly about this,as i have health problems,that require me to go to a hospital in cambridge(papworth hospital) and we live in bournemouth,and i need to know that my dog-sitter would take her on as she loves Tilly,even though she took a dislike to one of the dogs she looks after ,but is normally as good as gold the last time she had her.i need to know as to what kind of letter i would need to give,or as a dog-sitter would she already know what to do,as my ex-partner has lost all her paperwork,aswell as Tilly,s.thank-you.
Hi Tracy,
You would need to talk to your attorney about this, but you can put it in your will and provide a letter to the sitter with the attorney information. This blog post might be able to help. https://thesavvysitter.org/blog/pets-and-wills
This is a super useful guide for anyone hoping to hire a trustworthy pet sitter or dog walker! The right questions, of course, do save later stress. For experienced and reputable professionals, my advice is always to check out Petsfolio – they have every aspect covered, from experience through to emergency treatment.