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(480) 608-5885 / TLC House & Pet Sitting Service

How to Care for a Pet While Pet Sitting

So you’ve bagged yourself a pet-sitting job and are wondering about the basics of the job. Well, this article is a short guide that should help you understand what your work entails. Let’s have a look at how you are supposed to care of the animal.

1)   Follow Instructions

The pet owner will have likely left you with a list of instructions to care for your pet. Follow these instructions to a tee, as well as any schedule they’ve provided. Make sure to feed the pet at the appointed time, and to give them the right quantity of food. Some cat owners allow their pets to have free access to dry food at every point of the day, so make sure to keep bowls filled if this is the case. Clean water is a must as well. Ask the owner before you bring in any treats or food from outside, since the pet may be on a specific diet which variations might upset.

You will also have been instructed on any meds the pet is taking. Be careful to not deviate from the regular dosage and schedule, and never neglect or forget this. Plus, ensure that the litter boxes are cleaned regularly. The bottom line’s pretty straightforward: follow the instructions and you should be fine.

2)   Be Attentive to the Pet’s Needs

A pet sitter’s role exceeds simply providing the pet with the necessities of life. You’re also expected to keep the pet feeling comfortable and safe while their owners are away. Pets tend to become nervous or timid when their owners aren’t around (or even aggressive). That’s why it’s so important the pet sitter show them attention and affection every day. Play with the pet with their favorite toys until they get tired and sleepy. Stroke and cuddle them, and give them the human interaction they desire.

3)   Do Some Extra Work

No, this isn’t part of your job description, but performing extra tasks can display your dedication to the owner and help differentiate you from other sitters. Try to do some basic upkeep. You could keep the home clean, water the plants or collect the mail. However, take care to not disturb the organization of the house in your zeal to be efficient. So if you wash dishes, don’t put them back. Leave them be so the owner can arrange them as they prefer.

For More Information

If you have questions about nail clipping for dogs or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC Pet Sitter. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com.