Welcome to Treasure Valley Professional Pet Sitters Network

Please call one of our members in your area soon to find out more and schedule your pet care needs before your next trip. Many of our Pet Sitters also do mid-day dog walks.

Why should I hire a professional pet sitter who is a member of TVPPSN?

Members of TVPPSN all have a special love for animals. We are devoted to their care and are a diverse group.  If one member of our network is unable to satisfy your needs (ex. will not feed your snake or is uncomfortable with injections) we have the ability to recommend a pet sitter who can.

Most of our members are bonded and insured. We all provide references. Please check with the individual pet sitter to see that they meet your needs and requirements.

We have members throughout the Treasure Valley.

What should I look for in a Professional Pet Sitter?

It's important to learn all you can about prospective pet sitters' qualifications and services. Before selecting a pet sitter, interview the candidates over the phone or at your home. Find out the following:

• Can the pet sitter provide written proof that she has commercial liability insurance (to cover accidents and negligence) and is bonded (to protect against theft by a pet sitter or her employees)?
• What training has the pet sitter received?
• Will the pet sitter record notes about your pet, such as his likes, dislikes, fears, habits, medical conditions, medications, and routines?
• Is the pet sitter associated with a veterinarian who can provide emergency services?
• What will happen if the pet sitter experiences car trouble or becomes ill? Does she have a backup?
• Will the pet sitter provide related services such as in-home grooming, dog walking, dog training, and play time?
• Will the pet sitter provide a written service contract spelling out services and fees?
• If the pet sitter provides live-in services, what are the specific times she agrees to be with your pet? Is this detailed in the contract?
• How does your pet sitter make sure that you have returned home?
• Will the pet sitter provide you with the phone numbers of other clients who have agreed to serve as references?
• Even if you like what you hear from the pet sitter and from her references, it's important to have the prospective pet sitter come to your home to meet your pet before actually hiring her for a pet-sitting job. Watch how she interacts with your pet—does your pet seem comfortable with the person? If this visit goes well, start by hiring the pet sitter to care for your pet during a short trip, such as a weekend excursion. That way, you can work out any problems before leaving your beloved pet in the pet sitter's care for longer periods.

How can I help the pet sitter and my pet?

Of course, even the most trustworthy, experienced pet sitter will have trouble if you haven't also kept your end of the bargain. Here are your responsibilities:

• Make reservations with your pet sitter early, especially during holidays.
• Ensure your pet is well socialized and allows strangers to handle him.
• Affix current identification tags to your pet's collar.
• Maintain current vaccinations for your pet.
• Leave clear instructions detailing specific pet-care responsibilities and emergency contact information, including how to reach you and your veterinarian.
• Leave pet food and supplies in one place.
• Buy extra pet supplies in case you're away longer than planned.
• Leave a key with a trustworthy neighbor as a backup, and give him and your pet sitter each other's phone numbers. Be sure those extra keys work before giving them out.
• Show the pet sitter your home's important safety features such as the circuit breaker and security system.