All guides
Choosing a sitter

12 questions to ask a pet sitter before you book

The Paw-Stay Team · Pet care editors, reviewed by verified sitters 5 min read

Most owners read a profile, look at the photos and book. Ten minutes of questions tells you far more — especially about how a sitter behaves when something goes wrong.

Routine and daily care

  • What does a normal day look like for a dog staying with you?
  • How many hours will my pet be alone at a stretch?
  • How many other pets will be in the home during my dates?
  • Where will my dog sleep?

Experience and handling

  • Have you cared for a pet with my dog's temperament or medical needs?
  • How do you handle leash reactivity or a dog that won't settle?
  • Are you comfortable giving oral or injectable medication?

Emergencies

  • What's your plan if my pet gets sick or injured?
  • Which emergency vet would you use and how far is it?
  • Who covers for you if you're ill mid-stay?

Communication and payment

  • How often will I get photo updates?
  • How do you prefer to be contacted during a stay?

Keep messages and payment on-platform. Paw-Stay holds the payment until the stay is complete, which protects both sides if plans change.

Book pet care near you

Ready to put this into practice? Browse ID-verified local hosts by service or city.