What to Look for in a Pet Sitter

When it comes to our pets, we all want the same thing - someone who will love & care for them just like we would. But not all pet sitters are created equal. From hobby sitters to neighbor kids to professionals, there’s a wide range of options out there. So how do you know who’s the real deal?

Whether you’re booking care for a weekend getaway or daily walks while you’re at work, choosing a professional pet sitter makes all the difference. Here's what to look for when trusting someone with your furry (or feathered, scaled, or hoofed!) family member - & how the team at Fairy Dogmothers checks every single box.

Experience & Qualifications Matter

A professional pet sitter isn’t just someone who “loves animals". Although, of course, we do! It's someone with real experience, hands-on training, & the knowledge to handle everything from everyday care to unexpected emergencies.

At Fairy Dogmothers, our team has over 30 years of experience amongst us, & each sitter brings something special to the table. Some are former vet techs, others are farm animal experts, & all of us are experienced in taking care of pets with behavioral quirks, severe separation anxiety, or special needs.

We are all proudly:

• In-person, hands-on Pet First Aid & CPCR certified, we also renew our certification annually.

• Fingerprint-based state & federal background checked

• Lab-based drug-tested

• Carry bags on us that include full pet first-aid kits (that are carefully built to include air horns & citronella spray (in the event of an off-leash aggressive dog)

Dedicated to ongoing animal care education & professional development. Our owner & founder, Kaley is also a Certified Professional Pet Sitter, Fear-Free certified, & currently earning her certification to be an instructor in pet first-aid/CPCR classes.

We also have with experience in caring for more exotic pets beyond caring for dogs & cats. Do not let our name fool you - we also have experience with pigs, horses, goats, sheep, chickens, ducks, turtles, bearded dragons, snakes, tortoises, hedgehogs, hermit crabs, cockroaches, fish, birds, guinea pigs, rabbits, & chinchillas. As well as plenty of experience with the fur babies we've cared for that required extra attention. We've taken care of pets that are blind, deaf, have severe separation anxiety, chronic allergies, epilepsy, ulcerative colitis, pancreatitis, kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, mobility assistance, Cushing's, IVDD, & other chronic medical conditions.

This isn’t a side hustle for us - it’s our calling & career.

Trust, Reliability & Safety Come First

Leaving your pet in someone else’s care can be nerve-wracking. We get it! That’s why every team member at Fairy Dogmothers is:

Fully background-checked & drug tested

Insured & Bonded (with pet sitting specific insurance with the most reputable insurance provider, & have highest limits available)

W2 employees (not independent contractors), so we can ensure consistent training, performance, & accountability

We take our job & the responsibility that comes with it seriously- your pet & your home are treated with the utmost respect.

Communication is Everything

We don’t just take care of your pets - we keep you in the loop, too!

Using our pet sitting software Time to Pet, we provide:

• Real-time visit pupdates

• GPS-verified walks

• Photos, videos, & detailed visit reports with notes at the end of every visit

Transparency is #1 in our books when it comes to communication.

Whether you're in a work meeting or on vacation, you’ll know exactly how your fur baby is doing - because you deserve the peace of mind.

Why Professional Care is Different

A professional pet sitter isn’t “just popping in.” We’re educated & trained to spot the early signs of illness, discomfort, stress, or injury. Tailoring care to your pet’s personality & needs. While going at their pace, respecting their routines, & knowing how to gently support even the shyest or delicate pets.

Whether it’s making sure your diabetic cat gets their insulin or recognizing signs of bloat during a typical day, our team is prepared.

When it comes to your pets, don’t settle. Look for sitters who are experienced, dependable, communicative, & certified. Ask them right questions! Trust your gut as well as your pet's vibe. At Fairy Dogmothers, we’ve built our business on the belief that pets are family. That’s why we go above & beyond to deliver belly rubs, love, & expert-level care. Ready to meet your pet’s second bunch of favorite humans? Click here to book your Meet & Greet!

With love (& lots of treats),

Kaley Reinhart ✨🐾

Fear Free Certified Professional & Certified Instructor in Pet First-Aid+CPCR

Owner, Fairy Dogmothers LLC

fairydogmothersllc.com | @fairydogmothersllc