7 Things to Know Before Hiring a Pet Sitter
Hiring a Pet Sitter
What every pet parent should understand before trusting someone with their furry family member.
If you’re planning to be away—whether for a weekend getaway, a weeklong vacation, or an unexpected work trip—leaving your pets behind can stir up anxiety. That’s especially true in Western Massachusetts, where rural roads, weather extremes, and limited access to emergency services can add a layer of complexity to pet care. Hiring a pet sitter isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind.
But not all sitters are created equal.
Whether you’re in Northampton, Longmeadow, Amherst, or out in the Hilltowns, this guide will walk you through the seven most important things you need to know before hiring a pet sitter in Western MA. It’s your roadmap to making a confident, informed decision—so you can travel worry-free and return to a happy, healthy pet.
1. Not All Pet Sitters Offer the Same Services—Clarify Early
Pet sitting is a broad term, and what one sitter offers may differ wildly from another.
Some only do 15-minute drop-in visits, while others specialize in full overnight stays. Some offer midday walks; others are strictly in-home care. And then there are pet sitters (like us) who provide comprehensive, customized care tailored to your pet’s routine—from medication to playtime, feeding schedules to cuddles.
Ask these questions upfront:
Do you offer overnight care in the client’s home?
How many visits per day are included?
What animals are you comfortable caring for?
Do you charge extra for administering medication or caring for senior pets?
Clarifying scope early prevents misaligned expectations—and ensures your pet gets the care they’re used to.
2. Experience in the Region Matters—Especially in Western MA
Western Massachusetts is beautiful, but it’s also diverse in terrain and weather. A sitter who’s used to suburban Boston might be unprepared for the rural backroads of Wilbraham or the snowy hills of Montague. Your sitter needs to be capable not only with animals but also with navigating the local challenges.
Look for sitters who:
Have worked in both urban and rural parts of Western MA
Are used to driving long distances between sits
Understand seasonal pet safety (like tick prevention or winter paw care)
Know where local 24-hour vets or emergency clinics are located
Experience in your specific region translates into fewer surprises and better care.
3. Reviews and References Are Your Best Friend
Reputation matters in pet sitting—sometimes more than certifications.
Look for sitters with verified reviews, not just testimonials pasted onto a website. Check Rover, Google, Yelp, or ask for direct references. A responsible sitter should have no issue providing contact info for recent clients.
When reading reviews, pay attention to:
Mentions of responsiveness and communication
How emergencies (if any) were handled
Whether pets seemed calm and happy upon return
Any notes about the sitter leaving the home clean and secure
These are all signs you’re dealing with a pro—not someone who does this “on the side.”
4. Insurance Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential
When someone enters your home to care for your pet, you’re trusting them with two of your most valued assets—your home and your animal. That’s why liability insurance is a non-negotiable.
Any professional pet sitter should carry coverage that protects both you and them in case something goes wrong—whether it’s a dog slipping a leash, a scratched hardwood floor, or an unexpected accident inside your home. Without insurance, you’re on the hook if damages or injuries occur on your property.
Ask directly:
Do you carry general liability insurance for pet sitting?
What does your policy cover (e.g., property damage, pet injuries, third-party claims)?
Can you provide proof of coverage?
If a sitter can’t provide these answers—or hesitates when asked—it’s a red flag. Professionals will be prepared and transparent.
5. Your Home Is in Their Hands—Not Just Your Pet
Pet sitters aren’t just watching your animals—they’re staying in your home, sometimes for days or weeks. That requires an entirely different level of trust and professionalism. The best sitters treat your space with respect and leave it exactly as they found it—or cleaner.
Here’s what to look for:
Sitters who provide written agreements about home care (watering plants, bringing in mail, etc.)
Reviews that mention tidiness and respect for the space
Sitters who ask about alarm codes, trash day, and house quirks (like a sticky lock or a tricky faucet)
Willingness to send photos of your home as well as your pet
Your pets may be the focus—but peace of mind also means knowing your home is secure.
6. A Meet-and-Greet Isn’t Optional—It’s Critical
No matter how great someone looks on paper, chemistry matters. You want to see how the sitter interacts with your pet, how your pet responds, and whether the sitter asks the right questions.
During the meet-and-greet, watch for:
How the sitter approaches your pet (are they calm, patient, warm?)
Whether your pet seems relaxed or stressed
Whether the sitter takes notes about routines, feeding, quirks, and safety info
If the sitter asks questions that show thoughtfulness (e.g., “Where is your nearest vet?” “How does your dog handle thunderstorms?”)
Even if everything else checks out—if the vibe feels off, trust your gut. You can always schedule another interview.
7. Prepare for the Unexpected—And Choose a Sitter Who Does Too
Western Massachusetts can throw a few curveballs—from surprise blizzards to rural power outages. Your sitter should not only be calm under pressure but also have clear procedures in place for emergencies.
Make sure they:
Carry a pet first aid kit and have basic training
Know what to do if they get locked out or lose cell service
Have a reliable vehicle suitable for winter travel if needed
Provide daily updates with photos and notes
You’re Not Just Hiring a Sitter—You’re Choosing a Teammate in Pet Care
Hiring a pet sitter in Western Massachusetts isn’t just about finding someone who loves animals. It’s about choosing someone who communicates clearly, respects your home, understands the region, and makes your pet feel safe when you’re not there.
We’ve built our reputation by providing reliable, professional, and compassionate care for pets across Western MA and parts of Northern CT. . We offer overnight stays, personalized routines, and regular updates, because we know just how much trust it takes to hand someone your keys—and your heart on four legs.
If you’re preparing for travel and want to ensure your pet is in good hands, we’re here to help.