Finding the right person to look after your fur-kid can be challenging. Whether you’re going on vacation or need assistance with animal care while freelancing, there are specific characteristics and skills that you need to look out for before hiring a caregiver.

We’ve composed a list of traits that will assist you when hiring an animal caregiver.

Photo by Matt Nelson 

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You wouldn’t hire a babysitter without having him/her meet your kids first – the same goes for your pet. As part of your interview, allow the caregiver to meet your pet (s). This is an excellent way for you to assess whether the animal and caregiver have a natural connection. Take careful note of the interaction between them, how the person handles the pet, how the pet reacts, and if the caregiver’s experience matches their level of comfort.

Ask the animal caregiver questions during the interview to find out if they’ve ever taken care of animals. A great way to assess someone’s genuine love for animals is to ask about their pets. Naturally, anyone with pets is more than willing to share stories with you. An animal caregiver should have genuine concern and love for all pets and not be in it for the money.

Sometimes work schedules change, or an urgent matter comes up. Therefore it is advantageous for the caregiver to have flexible working hours and be available on short notice. If anything comes up, you know your pet will be taken care of.

Animals are unable to verbalise or communicate how they feel. The task of the animal caregiver is to gauge how they are feeling and act accordingly. Choose a caregiver who recognises the need of your pet and responds to them with patience and tender care. Giving full attention to The animal caregiver should show affection and handle the animal affectionately. Never hire a caregiver who uses physical punishment or force.

Animal caregivers are often in a position that will allow them to have access to the belongings of the pet owner. Therefore it is vital to choose someone trustworthy! To get an idea of the person’s trustworthiness, read their resume, complete background checks and read reviews about them online. If you have an unsettled feeling about the caregiver, trust your gut and try to hire another pet sitter.

The role of your animal caregiver is to make your life easier – it’s vital that you can rely on them and schedule your plans without any hassle. Make sure you set clear guidelines concerning rules and schedule. If the animal caregiver is ill or running late, what procedures are in place for letting you know? A good caregiver also understands the importance of consistency. Therefore, if the pet owner has rules in place, the caregiver should follow through.

The majority of people who work with animals share one thing in common: they all are passionate about animals. Make sure you find an animal caregiver that loves your fur-kid just like you do.

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