How to Choose a Reliable Boarding or Dog Sitter?

Choosing a reliable boarding or dog sitter is essential to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of your dog during your absence. By following these tips, you can leave with peace of mind knowing that your dog is in good hands. Take the time to compare several options before making your final choice.

Qualifications and Experience

Professional boarding facilities and dog sitters should have strong skills in animal care. Look for the following:

Certifications in pet first aid.
Previous experience with different types of dogs (breeds, sizes, ages, and specific needs).
Knowledge of canine behavior to effectively manage complex situations.

Recommendations and Reviews

Recommendations are often a good indicator of the quality of a service. To obtain reliable information:

Ask your veterinarian for advice, as they can direct you to reputable professionals.
Check online reviews on specialized platforms (Google, Yelp, etc.).
Join local groups or forums to exchange with other dog owners.

Visit the Facility or Preliminary Interview

Before making a decision, plan a visit to the boarding facility or an interview with the dog sitter. Here are some points to check:

Cleanliness of the facilities (no odors, regularly cleaned spaces).
Safety of the premises: presence of fences, anti-escape systems, and constant supervision.
Quality of interactions between staff and the animals present.

Adaptation to Specific Needs

Each dog is unique, and their needs must be respected. Ensure that the provider can:

Follow a specific diet or administer medications.
Manage behavioral particularities (anxiety, limited sociability, etc.).
Offer suitable activities (walks, playtime, etc.).

Safety Measures

A quality service should provide safety measures to protect the animals:

Liability insurance covering potential accidents.
Clear protocol in case of emergency (veterinary contacts, first aid).
Monitoring of vaccinations to prevent contagious diseases.

Clear and Transparent Contract

A written contract is essential to formalize the agreement. This document should include:

The services offered (number of walks, daily care, etc.).
The rates and payment terms.
The cancellation and refund conditions.

Price-Quality Ratio

Compare prices, but avoid choosing solely based on cost. Prioritize a balance between reasonable rates and quality of services.

Initial Contacts with Your Dog

Organize a preliminary meeting between your dog and the dog sitter or the boarding facility staff. Observe their interaction and check if your dog feels comfortable.