How to Choose a Pet Sitter:
What to Ask Before You Book

I'm a professional pet sitter. Which means I'm telling you how to find someone like me — and more importantly, how to avoid the ones who aren't actually qualified for the job.

I've heard every story. The sitter who disappeared for two days without visiting. The "experienced" neighbor who let a dog out of a yard without checking the fence. The person who showed up late every day and never sent a single update. Finding the right sitter is genuinely important — and it's not just about finding someone who likes dogs.

Start Your Search Before You Need Someone

This is the rule I give every client: find your pet sitter before you need your pet sitter. The week before your first trip is the worst possible time to be interviewing strangers. Good sitters book out weeks in advance, especially around holidays. And rushing the vetting process means you're more likely to settle for someone you're not entirely sure about.

Find your person now, do a meet-and-greet, do a trial visit or overnight, and have them saved in your phone for when you actually need them. You'll travel with so much less anxiety.

Where to Find a Pet Sitter in Texas

• Word of mouth from other dog owners — still the most reliable source. Ask at your dog park, vet office, or trainer
• Local professional pet sitters — independent sitters who build their business on referrals often provide more personal care than platform-based sitters
• Rover and Wag — large platforms with built-in reviews, insurance, and messaging. Convenient, but quality varies widely — read reviews carefully
• Your vet's recommendations — many vet clinics keep a list of trusted local pet sitters they refer clients to

10 Questions to Ask Before You Book

1. Are you insured and bonded? — Professional pet sitters should carry liability insurance. This protects you if your dog is injured, escapes, or causes property damage. No insurance = a red flag.
2. What happens in a pet emergency? — What's their protocol? Do they have a vet they work with? Are they authorized (and will they pay) to seek emergency care if they can't reach you?
3. How many dogs do you care for at once? — A sitter caring for 8+ dogs at the same time during drop-in visits isn't giving your dog meaningful attention.
4. What does a typical visit look like? — Get specifics. How long? What activities? Where in the home do they go? Do they just do the basics or actually engage with your dog?
5. How will you communicate with me while I'm away? — Daily photo updates? Text check-ins? App-based reports? Know what to expect so you're not anxiously refreshing your phone.
6. Do you have experience with my dog's specific needs? — Large breeds, senior dogs, medical needs, behavioral issues, separation anxiety. Make sure they're genuinely comfortable, not just agreeable.
7. Can I see reviews or references from current clients? — Anyone worth hiring has them and is happy to share.
8. What is your cancellation and backup policy? — Life happens. What do they do if they get sick or have an emergency? Do they have a backup sitter?
9. Are you comfortable with my dog's feeding routine? — Go through the feeding schedule and any medications. A hesitant or vague answer here is worth noting.
10. Do a meet-and-greet first, before any booking is confirmed. — Watch how the sitter interacts with your dog specifically. Your dog's reaction to them matters enormously.

Red Flags to Watch For

How Much Does a Pet Sitter Cost in Texas?

Texas pet sitting rates vary by service type and city. Here's a general range:

• Drop-in visits (20–30 min): $20–$45 per visit
• Dog walking (30 min): $20–$40 per walk
• Overnight house-sitting: $45–$95 per night
• 24-hour live-in care: $85–$150+ per day
• Holiday/weekend premium: $5–$20 surcharge over base rates

Before Your Sitter Arrives: The Info Card

One of the best things you can do for your sitter — and your own peace of mind — is leave a written care card. This covers feeding instructions, medications, your vet's contact info, your phone number while traveling, and any quirks or special instructions about your dog's routine.

After years of caring for other people's dogs, I can tell you: the owners who leave detailed written instructions have happier sitters AND happier dogs. Nothing gets missed. There's no guessing.