Homesitter etiquette – how to keep clients and pets happy

Posted on 29 August, 2023

Being a homesitter is a responsible and rewarding role, as well as being lots of fun! It involves staying in people’s homes when they go away to look after everything – pets, garden and security - and once clients have used one of our homesitters they often wonder how they ever managed without!

All our homesitters are sensible and reliable people, as well as good listeners who are sensitive to clients’ requirements. They are genuine animal lovers with proven pet-care skills and enjoy the homesitting lifestyle as it’s an opportunity to explore the UK, stay in some lovely family homes and meet amazing people.

Our homesitters are renowned for providing an excellent service, ensuring the happiness of both clients and pets. Clients trust our homesitters to stay in their homes and take care of their furry companions with the same kindness as if they were their own pet.

Following proper homesitter etiquette is therefore essential for a successful assignment. Here are some of our tips for keeping clients and pets happy:

Have a positive and respectful attitude

The right attitude is key for the role which means respecting other people’s homes and possessions, and having a desire to provide a quality five star service. Homesitters are adaptable, sensitive people who take their lead from the clients – and put themselves in the clients’ shoes too. When staying in the client’s home always treat it with care and respect, keep it tidy and adhere to any instructions given.

Good communication is the name of the game

From first accepting the job, to attending the preliminary meeting and being on assignment, having good communication is essential. Homesitters are fully briefed before deciding to take on the assignment by our head office, but they will also have a detailed discussion with the client at the preliminary meeting to discuss how the home runs and the pets’ routines and needs. This is an important meeting as it’s a chance for clients to run through everything the homesitter needs to know about the home and caring for the pets.

Good communication is also key when on assignment and meeting new people. Being polite and courteous at all times should be a given. We also recommend keeping in touch with the client occasionally, especially if they have pets to share a picture or video. Often clients are worried about leaving their pets when they go away but seeing how happy they are at home with the homesitter can put their mind at rest.

Always keep to the pet’s usual routine

At the preliminary meeting homesitters will have the chance to meet the pets they will be looking after and be fully briefed on their routine and care. This will include feeding times; grooming expectations; walk times for dogs, recommended routes, if the dog can be let off its lead and its usual commands; any medication pets may need, plus anything else that is important to know about looking after their pet. Remember to listen carefully, take notes as the assignment may still be a few weeks away and ask any questions. When on the assignment it’s important to always stick to the instructions given. This includes any specific training needs a dog may require, especially if it is a young dog that is still learning.

Stick to the rules about being away from the home

The aim of home and pet sitting is to look after the client’s property and animals, so absence periods away from the home when on an assignment have to be limited. We aim to achieve a sensible balance between taking proper responsibility for our clients’ homes and pets, and allowing homesitters the chance to explore new areas. Any period away from the property must not exceed three consecutive hours during daylight or one hour after dark, but homesitters may leave the premises on more than one occasion each day.

Be prepared for all eventualities

All our homesitters have 24/7 backup up from us when on an assignment but it’s important that they are prepared to handle any emergency with the home and pet in a calm and efficient way. This means having contact details of the local vet, plumber and electrician that the client uses to hand, as well as any other relevant phone numbers that might be needed in an emergency. Remember, ringing our head office for advice is recommended and encouraged. We therefore advise checking in with us as soon as possible after the event.

Maintain privacy

Refrain from sharing personal information about the client’s home and don’t invite friends or guests to their home during the assignment. Also, be mindful when out and about in the local area about sharing information about the client and their home and pets.

Leave a positive impression

Finally, ensure the house is left clean and tidy for the client’s return with beds made, washing up done and put away, plus any food that remains is packed up ready to be taken away when leaving. If the arrangement is leaving before the client gets home, ensure all the keys are left in the appropriate places. It’s a great idea to leave a thoughtful note to let them know how the homesit went and what their pets got up to whilst they were away. This is also an opportunity to show appreciation for the client’s trust and that you look forward to any future assignments taking care of their home and pets.

Building a reputation for professionalism and care is essential and increases the likelihood of repeat assignments and positive referrals from satisfied clients. Many of homesitters have regular clients which is beneficial for everyone, but especially the pets. Dogs often end up treating homesitters like a family friend after one visit and that is priceless for clients. It means they can head off on holiday knowing their furry friend is happy and getting the very best care. For more information in how to become a homesitter click here.

Tags: