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6 Skills You Need To Be A Great House Sitter

  • 29/09/2018
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When it comes to leaving a pet with a stranger, owners can be very fussy, and it's no surprise why!

They love their pets like family, so to entrust a stranger to keep them safe is a big step.  

If you think you're the right candidate for the job, then get yourself signed up with a pet sitting agency and make sure you have these six skills that are needed to be a great house sitter.  

1. You need to love animals 

This may seem like an obvious point, but it's an important one.

If you want to enter the world of dog sitting and pet sitting, you'll need to love pets and showcase that love.

Your host will want to know details about your own pets or animal care experience.

Remember, a true pet sitter will have a genuine concern for all animals and it won't just be about the money.

If a person sees your love for animals, then they're more likely to choose you.  

2. Be trustworthy 

Trust is the pinnacle of a successful pet sitting relationship.

If there is no trust, there is no job.

A pet is like a child, and when you leave town, the owner is putting a lot of trust in you.

A pet sitter should be someone who can deliver on their promise of comfort and safety.

If you can prove you have passed a background check, that can also be an extra bonus, but not necessary.  

3. Practice empathy 

Our pets are not able to verbalise how they feel. It, therefore, takes a special type of dog sitter to recognise how an animal is feeling and behaving.

They also need to know how to take the correct actions to walk, feed, soothe or anything else that is needed in dog care and general pet care.

You need to be sensitive to the needs of the animal, just like you would a human.  

4. Practice patience 

Pets can be a challenge to care for sometimes and being a successful pet sitter requires a lot of patience.

Pets can become uncooperative and misbehave so it's important that you have the patience necessary to deal with this.

If you can demonstrate your patience and empathy, then you'll be on the road to becoming a fantastic pet sitter.  

5. Showcase enthusiasm 

Ask lots of questions about the pet you are sitting.

Owners love to talk about their pets, and it can really indicate to them that you genuinely care about the needs of their animal.

Ask every question you can think of, including funny stories about their pet.

Don't forget to complement their animal too - owners love that!  

6. Be honest 

It's important that you avoid lying about your skills or abilities, and it's important that you're honest about your limitations.

If there is something you are truly not comfortable with then let the owner know.

You don't want to put yourself or the pet in an unsafe position or environment, and the owners would appreciate honesty above all else.

Being honest won't mean you don't get the position: if the owners like you, then they can usually shift the job requirements. 

If you can demonstrate these six desirable skills and qualities, then you'll be on the road to pet sitting success!

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