Pet Sitters International Recommended Quality Standards
for Excellence in Pet Sitting

Is fully insured.

Visits the client's home before the first pet-sitting assignment to meet the pets and get detailed information about their care.

Provides written literature describing services and stating fees.

Wants to learn as much as possible about the animals in his or her care.

Exhibits courtesy and professionalism in all dealings with staff, customers and industry colleagues, so as to present the pet sitter and the pet-sitting industry positively.

Has a veterinarian on-call for emergency service.

Conducts business with honesty and integrity and observes all laws pertaining to business operations and animal care.

Calls to confirm or has the client call to confirm that the client has returned home.

Refrains from criticising competitors.

Carefully screens applicants for employment.

Provides references.

Shows a positive attitude during the initial meeting and seems comfortable and competent in dealing with animals.

Is courteous, interested and well-informed.

Has experience in caring for pets and is clearly mindful of their safety and well-being.

Keeps regular office hours and answers client inquiries and complaints promptly.

Has a contingency plan for pet care in case of inclement weather or personal illness.

Takes precautions to make sure a client's absence from home is not detected because of any careless actions or disclosures by the sitter.

Provides initial and on-going training for its pet sitters.

Provides a service-rating form for clients.