Benefits of Sitter Meet-and-Greets
Choosing the right sitter for your dog is a lot like choosing the right sitter for your child. You want to know that whomever is with them is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and reliable. Scheduling a meet-and-greet with a potential sitter is a great way to find the perfect fit for your dog’s comfort and wellbeing, as well as your peace of mind.
Meet-and-greets give both the client and the sitter a chance to get to know each other the and pet in question. Ideally, you should meet where the dog would be staying. If not staying in their own home, this lets the dog familiarize themselves with the space so they’re less stressed later. It also provides the owner a chance to see if the accommodations suit their dog’s needs and gives sitters an idea of any changes that might need made for that dog’s safety and accessibility. If the sitter would be caring for your dog in your home, take the opportunity to go over ground rules, what the sitter can and cannot use, where pet supplies are, etc.
As the sitter and dog a get a feel for each other, you’ll want to discuss details like your dog’s medical needs (allergies, diet restrictions, exercise, etc.), behavioral issues and quirks (do they guard food, steal things, dig under fences, etc.?), and general routine. You want to paint a full picture of your dog’s daily life so the sitter can determine whether they can provide consistency.
Don’t be afraid to voice any concerns or questions you have. Is Rover hard to handle outdoors? Ask to see the sitter’s back yard. Does your dog not do well around children or other animals? Talk to the sitter about giving the dog their own space away from unwelcome attention. Does your pet have any traumas or triggers the boarders should be aware of? The meet-and-greet is the time to bring these kinds of things to their attention. This ensures both the safety of your dog as well as the sitter and any other visitors or residents of their home.
Your sitter likely has questions for you as well. In addition to personality description, be prepared to fill in the blanks for things like:
Where is your dog used to sleeping?
What is their favorite toy?
How often do they get bathroom breaks?
Do they like being in the car?
How do you reward/discipline your dog?
How do you comfort or calm your dog if they get upset?
Do they know any commands?
What are your preferred pick-up and drop-off times?
A good sitter may also ask for emergency contact info such as the veterinarian’s number and a number for someone else in case they cannot contact you.
It helps to come prepared with your questions and info to maximize your time. You may even want to take your dog on a walk with your sitter or head to the dog park. However you arrange your meet-and-greet, it is a great opportunity to compare sitters and find Fido’s best match.
Are you looking for a sitter? Contact Kokomo Home Buddies to schedule a meet-and-greet for your precious pup today!