How to Find a Dog Sitter

A good dog sitter is one of the most valuable people in a dog owner's life — someone you trust completely with your dog's safety, comfort, and wellbeing while you're away. Finding the right person takes more than a quick search. Here's how to find, vet, and hire a dog sitter you can genuinely trust.

What You'll Need to Prepare

• A dog camera: A Furbo 360° dog camera lets you check in on your dog and sitter remotely, giving you peace of mind even when you're not home.
• A dog first aid kit: An EVERLIT pet first aid kit that your sitter can access in an emergency — leave it in an obvious, accessible location.
• A Kong toy and enrichment supplies: A frozen stuffed Kong toy and other enrichment items for your sitter to use with your dog.

Where to Find a Dog Sitter

Pet Sitting Apps and Platforms

The most convenient way to find a vetted dog sitter. Major platforms include:

• Rover: The largest pet sitting platform in the US. Sitters are background-checked, reviews are verified, and the platform handles payment and insurance. Search by location, service type, and availability.
• Wag: Similar to Rover with background-checked sitters and app-based booking. Also offers dog walking services.
• Care.com: Broader caregiving platform that includes pet sitters. More varied vetting than Rover or Wag.

Personal Referrals

Ask your vet, dog trainer, groomer, or dog-owning friends for recommendations. A sitter who comes personally recommended by someone you trust is often the best option. Your vet's office may also know reliable local sitters.

Local Facebook Groups and Nextdoor

Local community groups often have recommendations for trusted local pet sitters. You can see reviews from neighbors and get a sense of the person's reputation in the community.

Veterinary Technicians and Vet Students

Vet techs and vet students often do pet sitting on the side. They have medical training that's invaluable if your dog has health issues, and they're typically passionate about animal care.

How to Vet a Dog Sitter

Step 1: Check Reviews and References

Read reviews carefully on any platform. Look for consistent themes — reliability, communication, how they handle emergencies. Ask for references from previous clients and actually call them.

Step 2: Verify Background Check

Use platforms that conduct background checks (Rover, Wag). For independent sitters, ask if they've had a background check or are willing to have one done.

Step 3: Meet and Greet First

Always arrange a meet and greet before booking. Bring your dog and observe how the sitter interacts with them. A good sitter will let your dog approach at their own pace, get down to their level, and show genuine interest in your dog's personality and needs.

Step 4: Ask the Right Questions

• What experience do you have with dogs similar to mine?
• What would you do in an emergency?
• How many other dogs will you be caring for at the same time?
• Are you pet first aid certified?
• How often will you send updates and photos?
• What is your cancellation policy?

Step 5: Start with a Trial

Before a long trip, book a short trial — a few hours or one night. This lets you assess the sitter's reliability and your dog's comfort before committing to a longer arrangement.

What to Leave for Your Dog Sitter

• Written care instructions: feeding schedule, medications, exercise routine, behavioral notes
• Emergency contacts: your number, a local backup contact, your vet's number
• Your vet's address and a signed authorization for emergency treatment
• Food, treats, and enrichment toys
• First aid kit in an accessible location
• Access to the dog camera app so they can monitor too

Red Flags to Watch For

• Reluctance to provide references or meet in person
• Discomfort or nervousness around your dog
• Vague answers about emergency procedures
• Caring for too many dogs simultaneously
• Poor communication or slow response times

Final Thoughts

Finding a great dog sitter takes time but is worth every bit of effort. Use reputable platforms, check references, always do a meet and greet, and start with a trial before a long trip. Leave clear written instructions, a first aid kit, and access to your dog camera. The right sitter gives you genuine peace of mind — and your dog a safe, happy experience while you're away.