Looking after somebody's pet for a fixed duration of time is the job of a pet sitter. The simplest job for a pet sitter is taking a dog for a walk. You are paid to take the dog out for a 20 to 30 minutes stroll daily.
There are always customers who'd want some additional services and they pay the pet sitter accordingly. For example, if they want their dogs taken for a longer walk, or a run, they'll pay more. The service defines the pay.
The last couple of years have witnessed tremendous growth in the pet sitting business in Unites States. Pet sitting has turned from a hobby to a full-time profession. People have put in efforts to turn it into a proper commercial undertaking. There are many in these businesses that are making a living through this profession. There is no shortage of customers if one is willing to put in time and efforts at a professional front.
There is basically no professional degree or certificate needed to get into this business. The only pre requisite is that the pet sitter should be sensitive and have the ability to understand animals and their moods. If the pet sitter loves being around animals and tending to them, then he will surely make a mark in the market.
If the pet sitter is well versed and observant of the behavior of the pet then he is readily accepted. Animals lack the ability to communicate verbally. They rely on their body language to express their likes and displeasure. It is the duty of the pet sitter to have a keen eye to ensure that he understands the needs and moods of the pet appropriately. This skill will go a long way to make the pet sitter bond with the pet and make it comfortable.
Constantly being up to date is imperative for a pet handler. Often pet owners do not own single pets. They may have a range of pets such as birds, rabbits etc. At times pet owners may also have pets such as cats as well as dogs. In this case the pet sitter is expected to be competent enough to manage all the beasts with their diverse mood and temperaments. As one cannot predict what pets would be available in the next job, therefore it is a good practice to know the basics of dealing with some common animals and birds. Hence, honing your skills is a good idea.
Do not panic at this thought since it sounds difficult but as you continue in this profession you learn most of the things yourself. Your experience will help you build up on your skills. However, a little knowledge about the animals will help you execute your pet sitting job better and will help you avoid acute difficulties.
Half knowledge is dangerous. Hence, do not shy from asking any questions and clear all doubts. By asking questions you will get the maximum information from the customer. Keep a track of the likes and dislikes of the pet so that you can take care of the pet better.
Do not start boasting about your knowledge of pet-care when you are given a job and especially when you actually do not know much about it. The customer's preference is that individual who is more likely to follow the instruction given to him than somebody who would do everything according to his/her own wish. 'Flying solo' is the term that is used for such people who do not heed to instructions and be in charge as they like. Do not ignore the customer's instruction as it might be very important and might be a great help for you in your job.
Maintain clarity in all your interactions. Clearly define the role and confirm it with the client before committing to the job. Check if there are any particular requirements before going on board. Keep all interactions in black and white to ensure there is no miscommunication. This document will be handy in case you need to refer to it again.
A complete professional pet sitter ensures that professionalism is maintained. They do not experiment with the animals unless they are sure of their actions. Therefore in case you have any doubts it is better to clear the same with the pet owners rather than taking any chances. Follow the instructions given by the pet owner. By taking proper care and keeping the pet happy you can ensure that the customer finds you reliable and will choose you whenever the need arises. Having a good rapport will also earn you more references therefore the goodwill needs to be maintained.
There are always customers who'd want some additional services and they pay the pet sitter accordingly. For example, if they want their dogs taken for a longer walk, or a run, they'll pay more. The service defines the pay.
The last couple of years have witnessed tremendous growth in the pet sitting business in Unites States. Pet sitting has turned from a hobby to a full-time profession. People have put in efforts to turn it into a proper commercial undertaking. There are many in these businesses that are making a living through this profession. There is no shortage of customers if one is willing to put in time and efforts at a professional front.
There is basically no professional degree or certificate needed to get into this business. The only pre requisite is that the pet sitter should be sensitive and have the ability to understand animals and their moods. If the pet sitter loves being around animals and tending to them, then he will surely make a mark in the market.
If the pet sitter is well versed and observant of the behavior of the pet then he is readily accepted. Animals lack the ability to communicate verbally. They rely on their body language to express their likes and displeasure. It is the duty of the pet sitter to have a keen eye to ensure that he understands the needs and moods of the pet appropriately. This skill will go a long way to make the pet sitter bond with the pet and make it comfortable.
Constantly being up to date is imperative for a pet handler. Often pet owners do not own single pets. They may have a range of pets such as birds, rabbits etc. At times pet owners may also have pets such as cats as well as dogs. In this case the pet sitter is expected to be competent enough to manage all the beasts with their diverse mood and temperaments. As one cannot predict what pets would be available in the next job, therefore it is a good practice to know the basics of dealing with some common animals and birds. Hence, honing your skills is a good idea.
Do not panic at this thought since it sounds difficult but as you continue in this profession you learn most of the things yourself. Your experience will help you build up on your skills. However, a little knowledge about the animals will help you execute your pet sitting job better and will help you avoid acute difficulties.
Half knowledge is dangerous. Hence, do not shy from asking any questions and clear all doubts. By asking questions you will get the maximum information from the customer. Keep a track of the likes and dislikes of the pet so that you can take care of the pet better.
Do not start boasting about your knowledge of pet-care when you are given a job and especially when you actually do not know much about it. The customer's preference is that individual who is more likely to follow the instruction given to him than somebody who would do everything according to his/her own wish. 'Flying solo' is the term that is used for such people who do not heed to instructions and be in charge as they like. Do not ignore the customer's instruction as it might be very important and might be a great help for you in your job.
Maintain clarity in all your interactions. Clearly define the role and confirm it with the client before committing to the job. Check if there are any particular requirements before going on board. Keep all interactions in black and white to ensure there is no miscommunication. This document will be handy in case you need to refer to it again.
A complete professional pet sitter ensures that professionalism is maintained. They do not experiment with the animals unless they are sure of their actions. Therefore in case you have any doubts it is better to clear the same with the pet owners rather than taking any chances. Follow the instructions given by the pet owner. By taking proper care and keeping the pet happy you can ensure that the customer finds you reliable and will choose you whenever the need arises. Having a good rapport will also earn you more references therefore the goodwill needs to be maintained.
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