Questions to Ask a Pet Sitter

Updated July 2026

Choosing a pet sitter is not just about finding someone who is available on the dates you need.

You are trusting someone with your pet, your home, your keys and important information about your routine. Asking a few clear questions before you book can help you understand exactly what is being offered and whether the sitter is right for your animal.

This guide gives you 21 practical questions to ask a pet sitter, along with the details you should listen for in their answers.

For a more detailed comparison of pet visits, house sitting, home boarding, kennels and catteries, read my complete guide to choosing a pet sitter in the UK.

Why asking the right questions matters

Most pet sitters care deeply about animals, but services and experience can vary considerably.

One person may provide short feeding visits. Another may stay overnight in your home. Some specialise in cats, while others have more experience with rescue dogs, senior pets, medication or small animals.

The cheapest sitter, the nearest sitter or the person with the most social media followers will not automatically be the best match.

The important questions are:

  • What care will my pet actually receive?
  • Who will provide it?
  • Does that person understand my pet’s needs?
  • What will happen if something goes wrong?

You do not need to conduct an intimidating interview. A calm conversation during the meet-and-greet should give both you and the sitter an opportunity to decide whether the arrangement is suitable.

1. What type of pet care do you provide?

Start by asking the sitter to explain their service in practical terms.

“Pet sitting” may mean:

  • a short feeding visit
  • a longer welfare visit
  • a dog toilet break
  • a solo dog walk
  • a cat-sitting visit
  • small-animal care
  • overnight house sitting
  • live-in care
  • puppy visits
  • agreed medication support

Ask what is included and what is not.

A useful answer should explain:

  • where the care takes place
  • how long each visit lasts
  • whether overnight care is available
  • what tasks are included
  • what additional services cost
  • whether the service is suitable for your particular pet

Be cautious of vague descriptions such as “I will pop in when I can” or “I will stay most of the time”.

You need a clear arrangement rather than a general promise.

2. Are you insured for the service you are providing?

Ask whether the sitter has suitable business insurance.

The policy should relate to the work they will actually perform, which may include:

  • pet sitting
  • house sitting
  • dog walking
  • care, custody and control of animals
  • loss of keys
  • public liability
  • agreed medication
  • pet transport, where offered

Ask whether you may see proof of current cover.

Insurance does not automatically make someone a good pet sitter. However, a professional should understand why you want to check.

Listen for:

  • a direct answer
  • confirmation that the policy is current
  • an explanation of what services are covered
  • willingness to provide evidence

An unexplained lack of appropriate insurance is a reason to look more carefully at the arrangement.

3. What experience do you have with pets like mine?

General animal experience is useful, but relevant experience matters more.

Someone may be very comfortable with friendly adult dogs but have little experience with:

  • nervous rescue dogs
  • reactive dogs
  • dogs who guard food or spaces
  • cats who hide from visitors
  • elderly pets
  • puppies
  • rabbits
  • guinea pigs
  • pets requiring medication
  • multi-pet households
  • animals with a history of escaping

Describe your pet honestly and ask for practical examples.

You could ask:

  • Have you cared for a pet with similar needs?
  • How did you approach them?
  • What did their daily routine involve?
  • What problems occurred?
  • What did you do when the pet did not behave as expected?

A good sitter does not need to claim they have encountered every possible situation.

Honesty about the limits of their experience is often more reassuring than someone who says they can handle anything.

4. How would you approach a nervous or rescue pet?

A nervous animal should not be rushed into interacting.

Ask how the sitter would respond if your pet:

  • barked when they entered
  • stayed behind furniture
  • refused to approach
  • would not take a treat
  • hid throughout the visit
  • refused to walk
  • appeared unsettled
  • needed several introductions

A good answer may include:

  • allowing the pet to keep their distance
  • avoiding prolonged eye contact
  • using calm body language
  • not reaching over the animal
  • letting the pet approach in their own time
  • following familiar routines
  • avoiding punishment
  • changing the plan if the pet is struggling
  • arranging more than one introductory visit

Be cautious if someone talks about dominating your pet, showing them who is in charge or forcing them to interact.

Fear needs patience and space, not confrontation.

You can also read my guide to getting your dog used to a pet sitter.

5. Do you have pet first-aid training?

Pet first-aid training does not replace veterinary treatment.

It can show that the sitter has taken time to learn how to respond to an urgent situation.

Ask:

  • what course they completed
  • when they completed it
  • whether they refresh their training
  • how they would respond to an emergency
  • when they would contact a vet

The answer should involve staying within their competence and promptly seeking veterinary help.

Be cautious of anyone who appears willing to diagnose or treat a serious condition themselves.

6. Do you hold a DBS check?

A Disclosure and Barring Service check can provide additional reassurance when someone will enter your home, stay overnight or hold your keys.

However, it should not be treated as proof that someone is a skilled or reliable pet sitter.

Ask:

  • what level of check they hold
  • when it was issued
  • whether you may see the certificate
  • whether it is connected to another role
  • whether it is registered with the Update Service where applicable

Different roles qualify for different levels of DBS checking. Current information is available through the GOV.UK DBS eligibility guidance.

Consider the DBS check alongside insurance, experience, references, communication and your own observations.

7. Can you provide references or genuine reviews?

Reviews can help you understand how someone works in real situations.

Look for comments about:

  • reliability
  • communication
  • house sitting
  • cats
  • rescue dogs
  • nervous pets
  • medication
  • cleanliness
  • following instructions
  • handling unexpected problems
  • regular updates
  • long-term client relationships

A few detailed reviews may tell you more than a large number of ratings without any useful information.

Ask for references if you need further reassurance, particularly for longer house sits or complicated care.

You can read some of my own Finchley Dog Walker testimonials.

8. Will you personally care for my pet?

Do not assume that the person you meet will complete every visit.

Some businesses use:

  • employees
  • subcontractors
  • temporary cover
  • rotating teams
  • agency workers
  • other family members

This may be acceptable for some pets, but you should know before booking.

Ask:

  • Will you personally attend?
  • Could another person be sent instead?
  • Will I meet that person beforehand?
  • Are they insured?
  • Will they have access to my instructions?
  • How will I be told if the arrangement changes?
  • Will anyone accompany you into my home?

Consistency can be particularly important for nervous animals and cats who are wary of unfamiliar people.

9. How long will each visit last?

The word “visit” can mean different things to different businesses.

Ask for the actual visit length and what must be completed during that time.

A visit may need to include:

  • entering and securing the property
  • preparing food
  • washing bowls
  • replacing water
  • cleaning litter trays
  • checking an enclosure
  • giving medication
  • allowing a dog into the garden
  • taking a dog for a walk
  • cleaning up accidents
  • spending time with the pet
  • taking photographs
  • sending an update

Make sure the advertised time allows the sitter to complete the important welfare tasks without rushing.

Ask directly:

  • Is the visit 20, 30, 45 or 60 minutes?
  • Does that time begin when you enter the property?
  • Is travel included in the visit time?
  • What happens if my pet needs extra attention?
  • Will you leave early if the tasks are completed?

Clear visit lengths help prevent misunderstandings.

10. What time will you arrive?

Many pet sitters use arrival windows rather than promising an exact time.

This can be reasonable because travel, emergencies, weather and other pets can affect the day.

However, the arrival window must suit your animal.

Ask:

  • Is the visit time exact or approximate?
  • How wide is the arrival window?
  • How will I be told if you are delayed?
  • Can you meet time-sensitive medication requirements?
  • What happens if another client has an emergency?
  • How do you plan routes between clients?

A flexible feeding time may suit a healthy adult cat. It may not suit a pet who needs medication or a puppy requiring regular toilet breaks.

11. How long will my pet be left alone?

This is particularly important when booking house sitting.

An overnight house sitter may still leave during the day for:

  • dog walks
  • other pet visits
  • work
  • shopping
  • appointments
  • personal commitments

House sitting does not automatically mean someone will remain in the property continuously.

Explain how long your pet is normally comfortable being left.

Ask:

  • What is the longest period you expect to be away?
  • How many times might you leave each day?
  • Do you have another daytime job?
  • How many other clients will you visit?
  • Will my pet’s normal routine be possible?
  • Can you provide more continuous care if required?

Do not accept a vague promise that the sitter will be “around most of the time”.

Agree realistic periods in advance.

You may also find my guide to house sitting versus boarding for dogs helpful.

12. How many other pets do you care for each day?

Being busy does not automatically make someone unreliable.

Overbooking can create problems.

Ask how the sitter balances:

  • travel
  • pet visits
  • dog walks
  • house sitting
  • medication times
  • client updates
  • emergencies
  • hot-weather changes
  • unexpected delays

A person travelling across a large area may have less flexibility than someone working locally.

Listen for a realistic explanation of how the sitter organises their diary rather than an impressive-sounding number of bookings.

13. Will my dog be walked alone or with other dogs?

Never assume that pet sitting includes a solo dog walk.

Ask whether your dog will be:

  • walked alone
  • paired with another dog
  • placed into a group
  • transported in a vehicle
  • taken somewhere away from the local area
  • allowed off lead
  • walked by someone other than the sitter

This is especially important for:

  • nervous dogs
  • reactive dogs
  • rescue dogs
  • older dogs
  • dogs with poor recall
  • dogs who are uncomfortable in vehicles
  • dogs who struggle around unfamiliar animals

I provide local, one-to-one walks without collection rounds, group walks, cars or vans.

If your pet is used to a calm walk from their own front door, a sudden change to group transport and a busy walk may cause unnecessary stress.

14. What walking equipment and methods do you use?

Ask how the sitter will handle your dog outside.

Discuss:

  • harnesses
  • flat collars
  • leads
  • long lines
  • identification tags
  • high-visibility equipment
  • hot-weather precautions
  • roads
  • interactions with dogs
  • recall
  • wildlife
  • escape risks

Tell the sitter clearly if your dog must not:

  • be let off lead
  • greet unfamiliar dogs
  • travel in a vehicle
  • walk beside roads
  • use certain equipment
  • visit busy parks
  • enter water
  • be handled by the collar

Be cautious if someone suggests harsh corrections, intimidation or equipment you have not agreed to.

The sitter should follow your safety instructions and use calm, humane handling.

15. Can you give my pet medication?

Never assume that medication is included.

Explain:

  • the name of the medication
  • the dose
  • the required time
  • how it is given
  • whether food is required
  • how the medication is stored
  • what happens if a dose is refused
  • possible side effects
  • when the vet should be contacted

Ask whether the sitter:

  • has relevant experience
  • is insured for the task
  • is comfortable giving it
  • will keep a written record
  • can meet the required timing

The sitter should only accept medication they are competent to provide.

More complex care may require additional support from your veterinary practice.

16. What would you do in an emergency?

Do not wait until your pet becomes unwell to discuss this.

Ask the sitter what they would do if:

  • your pet stopped eating
  • your dog collapsed
  • your cat could not be found
  • your rabbit stopped producing droppings
  • your pet escaped
  • there was vomiting or diarrhoea
  • your pet was injured
  • your home became unsafe
  • they could not contact you

A useful answer should include:

  • contacting you
  • contacting your emergency contact
  • calling your veterinary practice
  • using an emergency vet where necessary
  • following written authority
  • acting promptly
  • recording what happened

Before travelling, leave:

  • your normal vet’s details
  • an emergency veterinary contact
  • your pet’s medical information
  • insurance details where relevant
  • written veterinary authority
  • a local emergency contact
  • clear instructions about payment

Your emergency contact should not be travelling with you.

17. What happens if you become ill or cannot attend?

Every sitter should have considered this possibility.

Ask:

  • Who will contact me?
  • Is there a backup sitter?
  • Will I meet that person?
  • Are they insured?
  • Do they have access to my instructions?
  • Will my local emergency contact need to take over?
  • Who has access to the key?
  • How quickly will I be told?

A sole trader may not have another pet sitter available to step in.

In that situation, a clearly agreed local emergency contact may be safer than sending an unfamiliar replacement into your home.

The important point is that everyone knows what will happen.

18. How do you manage keys and home security?

Ask how your keys will be:

  • collected
  • labelled
  • stored
  • transported
  • returned
  • kept between bookings
  • accessed during an emergency

A key should not be labelled with your full address.

Also discuss:

  • burglar alarms
  • smart locks
  • entry codes
  • doorbell cameras
  • indoor cameras
  • gates
  • communal entrances
  • parking arrangements
  • rooms that are out of bounds

Tell the sitter about every camera or recording device before the booking.

If the sitter is staying overnight, sleeping and bathroom areas must remain private.

19. Will anyone else enter or stay in my home?

House sitting should not automatically include permission for guests.

Ask whether the sitter intends to bring:

  • a partner
  • friends
  • children
  • another sitter
  • another client’s pet
  • their own pet

You should also tell the sitter about anyone else who may attend, including:

  • cleaners
  • gardeners
  • relatives
  • neighbours
  • contractors
  • delivery drivers with access
  • building staff

Unexpected visitors can be worrying for the sitter and unsettling for your pet.

Any person entering your home should be discussed and agreed in advance.

20. How will you keep me updated?

Agree how often you would like updates.

These may include:

  • photographs
  • short videos
  • WhatsApp messages
  • feeding information
  • medication confirmation
  • litter tray information
  • walk summaries
  • behaviour observations
  • information about your home

A useful update tells you more than “All fine”.

For example:

“Luna ate most of her evening meal and has used the litter tray normally. She remained under the bed while I prepared her food but came out once I sat quietly in the living room. Her water has been changed and the house is secure.”

Ask:

  • Will I receive an update after every visit?
  • Will you contact me if something changes?
  • What happens if I have poor internet access?
  • Who should you contact if I do not reply?
  • Will you share photographs publicly?

Photographs of your pet or home should not be used for marketing without your permission.

21. What are your prices, cancellation terms and additional charges?

Ask for the total cost before confirming the booking.

Check whether the price includes:

  • the full visit
  • dog walking
  • medication
  • key collection
  • key return
  • travel
  • bank holidays
  • additional pets
  • extended care
  • plant watering
  • waiting for your return
  • an introductory meeting

Also ask:

  • Is a deposit required?
  • When is the balance due?
  • Is the payment refundable?
  • What happens if I return early?
  • What happens if my return is delayed?
  • What happens if you cancel?
  • Is there a charge for changing the booking?
  • How are additional days calculated?

Compare what each sitter offers rather than focusing only on the headline price.

My current service charges are listed on the Finchley Dog Walker prices page.

What should a good pet sitter ask you?

The conversation should not be one-sided.

A careful sitter should ask you questions about your pet, home and travel arrangements.

These may include:

  • What does your pet eat?
  • When are they fed?
  • Are they taking medication?
  • Do they have allergies?
  • Which veterinary practice do you use?
  • Who is your emergency contact?
  • What behaviour is normal?
  • What fears or triggers do they have?
  • Has your dog ever bitten or snapped?
  • Does your pet guard food, toys or spaces?
  • Has your pet ever escaped?
  • Where does your cat normally hide?
  • May your dog greet other dogs?
  • May your dog be let off lead?
  • How long can your pet be left?
  • Where does your pet sleep?
  • Who else will enter the property?
  • Are there any cameras?
  • When are you expected home?
  • What should happen if you are delayed?

Be cautious if someone is ready to accept a complicated booking without asking much about the pet.

Be honest about your pet

Owners sometimes omit difficult information because they worry the sitter will refuse the booking.

This can put the pet and sitter at risk.

Tell the sitter if your dog:

  • is reactive
  • has bitten or snapped
  • guards food
  • pulls strongly
  • has unreliable recall
  • tries to escape
  • dislikes handling
  • chases animals
  • becomes distressed when alone
  • is frightened of traffic
  • reacts to visitors entering the home

Tell the sitter if your cat:

  • hides from strangers
  • tries to escape through doors
  • has outdoor access
  • stops eating when stressed
  • dislikes being handled
  • is difficult to medicate
  • has a history of urinary problems
  • lives separately from another cat

Also explain any important needs relating to rabbits, guinea pigs or other small animals.

A suitable sitter will use this information to decide whether they can provide safe and appropriate care.

What to observe during the meet-and-greet

Pay attention to how the sitter behaves around your pet.

Positive signs include:

  • entering calmly
  • listening to your instructions
  • allowing your pet to keep their distance
  • avoiding forced contact
  • noticing body language
  • asking before offering treats
  • showing interest in the routine
  • taking notes
  • asking sensible follow-up questions
  • being honest about their limitations

Be cautious if the sitter:

  • rushes towards your pet
  • repeatedly calls a frightened animal
  • corners a hiding cat
  • ignores growling or avoidance
  • dismisses your concerns
  • uses punishment
  • insists all animals love them
  • promises care they cannot clearly explain
  • appears rushed or distracted

Your pet does not need to become the sitter’s best friend during the first meeting.

The sitter should show that they are prepared to build trust gradually.

The five most important questions

When you feel overwhelmed by a long checklist, start with these five:

  1. Are you insured for this service?
  2. What experience do you have with pets like mine?
  3. Who will actually provide the care?
  4. What will you do in an emergency?
  5. How long will my pet be left alone?

Then consider how the sitter communicates and behaves around your animal.

Clear, honest answers are more valuable than polished sales language.

Quick checklist before you book

Before confirming your pet sitter, make sure you understand:

  • who will provide the care
  • what each visit includes
  • how long visits last
  • the likely arrival times
  • how long your pet may be left
  • whether your dog will be walked alone
  • whether transport will be used
  • what equipment and methods will be used
  • whether medication can be given
  • how emergencies will be handled
  • what happens if the sitter becomes ill
  • how keys will be protected
  • whether anyone else may enter
  • how updates will be provided
  • the full cost
  • the cancellation terms
  • what information the sitter needs from you

Keep the sitter’s answers with your booking information.

Frequently asked questions

Should I always meet a pet sitter before booking?

You should normally arrange a meet-and-greet before care begins.

This allows you to explain the routine, discuss safety and observe how the sitter responds to your pet.

More than one meeting may be helpful for a nervous animal.

Should I ask to see a pet sitter’s insurance?

Yes.

A professional pet sitter should understand why you want to confirm that their insurance is current and relevant to the service.

Is a DBS check enough to prove someone is trustworthy?

No single check can prove that someone is suitable.

Consider a DBS check alongside insurance, references, experience, communication, key security and the sitter’s behaviour during the meet-and-greet.

What is the biggest warning sign when choosing a sitter?

Vague communication is one of the most useful warning signs.

You should receive clear answers about who will attend, visit lengths, periods your pet may be left, emergencies, keys and prices.

How long should a pet-sitting visit last?

The right length depends on the animal and the tasks involved.

A visit must allow enough time for feeding, water, cleaning, medication, welfare checks, interaction and securing the home without rushing.

Does house sitting mean constant care?

Not necessarily.

Many house sitters leave the property during the day for other work or personal commitments.

Agree how long your pet may be left before you book.

Should I choose the cheapest pet sitter?

Price matters, but services should be compared properly.

A lower price may reflect a shorter visit, fewer tasks, less experience or a different level of availability.

Choose the arrangement that meets your pet’s needs.

What if my pet does not like the sitter?

Some animals need several calm introductions.

Do not force the relationship. When your pet remains highly distressed or the sitter does not respond appropriately, consider another arrangement.

Continue planning your pet’s care with these guides:

Looking for a pet sitter in Finchley?

I have provided professional pet care since 2011 and offer calm, local support for dogs, cats and small animals.

My services include:

  • house sitting
  • cat-sitting visits
  • small-animal care
  • solo dog walking
  • rescue-dog support
  • puppy visits
  • holiday pet care

I work with one household at a time and do not provide group dog walks, van collections or large-scale boarding.

My approach may be particularly suitable for rescue dogs, nervous pets, older animals and households that value familiar routines.

Every new arrangement is subject to location, availability and a suitable meet-and-greet.

Read about house sitting in Finchley

View current pet-care prices

Explore my dog and cat care guides

Contact Del about pet care

WhatsApp: 07707 763344

Important information

This guide provides general information for pet owners and does not replace veterinary, legal or qualified behavioural advice.

Discuss health concerns with your veterinary practice. Complex behavioural concerns may require support from an appropriately qualified, reward-based behaviour professional.

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