Last Updated on June 4, 2023 by ellen
Are you wondering how to dog sit for a friend? If you have a friend who will be away from home for a few days, they may ask you to take care of their dog. If you’re not familiar with dog sitting services, here are a few tips on what you should do.
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How to Dog Sit for a Friend
If you’re wondering how to dog sit for a friend, the first step is to ask them what they need you to do. Everyone has different expectations when it comes to hiring a pet sitter. And, your friend may want more or less when you stop by.
If they’re looking for trusted house sitters, who better to ask than a friend? Pet sitting services can be expensive, so a friend might be a great option.
Make sure that they show you where all of the supplies are including the leash, toys, food, treats, and poop bags for walks. And, be sure you understand where the dog is and is not allowed to go in the house.
So, whether it’s dogsit or dog sit, keep reading!
How much should you pay a friend to dog sit?
Professional pet sitters can charge anywhere from $25 for a brief visit to $300 per week. Since this is a friend we’re talking about, your rate may be different than that.
I’ve pet sat for friends nearby for free. And, that is perfectly fine if you want to do that. But, it’s also fine to expect some type of monetary compensation for being a dog sitter.
How do you take care of a friend’s dog?
The first thing to determine is whether or not you are bringing the dog to your home or you are going to theirs. If you already have pets, consider how your pets will react to a strange dog in their home. And, consider whether or not your house it pet safe.
Do you have a pet-safe area for the dog to stay in? Are your yard and garden free of plants that are toxic to animals? These are things to mention to the pet parents.
Perhaps you have a local dog park you can take them to?
It may be easiest for the dog if you go to your friend’s home. The dog is already familiar with the home and the smells in the home. They have a favorite spot, a pet bed, and familiar surroundings.
If you’re wondering how to dog sit for a friend, remember that every dog is unique. They have their own personalities. So, these dog sitting tips can only go so far.
You need to get to know the animal before your friend leaves. It may be helpful to bring along a new dog toy for them. There’s lots of things dog sitters need to consider.
Get the contact information
Be sure that your friend leaves a number where they can be reached while they’re away. You will also want a copy of their vet records and contact information for the vet and pet hospital they use in the area just in case.
Here are a few tips for emergency pet care. If you offer a pet sitting service, you want to be prepared for emergencies.
How do you pet sit?
If you’re pet sitting at your friend’s home, you will need to stop by at least twice a day. You’ll need to let the dog out to go to the bathroom. And, you will want to take them on a walk to burn off energy. Dogs can be destructive when left in the house alone all day.
I find it best to stop by once in the morning and then once in the early evening. This way, the dog can go outside to the bathroom. And, you can refill the food and water bowls.
Expect to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour while you are there. Dogs enjoy being around people so be sure to talk to them, play with their favorite toys, scratch them, and talk to them. If you’re wondering how to dog sit for a friend, it involves more than food and walks.
Learn their schedule
All animals have some type of schedule that they are used to. Ask your friend what time the dog normally eats, goes for a walk, and wakes up. Then, try to stick to this schedule as much as possible.
The dog won’t understand why they don’t have their breakfast at 6 AM when that’s the time they usually eat. Changes to their schedule can cause stress and anxiety which can lead to behavior problems.
Prepare for dog sitting problems
While no one likes problems, they do happen. If the dog gets loose, destroys something in the home, or gets sick, it’s important to be prepared.
Be sure you have contact information for local animal control and veterinarians just in case.
To avoid potential personality problems, be sure that the dog knows you before your friend leaves. Stop by a few times to feed the dog, pet them, take them on a walk, and get to know them. If you feel that the dog is too aggressive for you to handle easily, it’s OK to say no.
How to dog sit for a friend summary
- Get to know the dog before your friend leaves.
- Make sure you have their contact information and the vet’s phone number.
- Learn the dog’s schedule and stick to it.
- Find out where the supplies are.
- Expect to spend at least 30 minutes twice a day.
- Make sure to give the dog attention and love while you’re there.
If you’re looking for pet sitter jobs and have no experience, try asking a friend if you can watch their pet on date night. Then, you will have a reference to provide.
If you’re interested in starting a pet sitting business to earn extra money, this is a great book.
Try Rover if you are looking for a pet sitter near you. Rover dog sitting can help you with dog walking and pet sitting if you’re friend is not available.
Related Reading
- How to start a pet sitting business
- Dog walking supplies for pet sitters
- How to take care of a baby rabbit
- Pet safe air freshener
- How to keep dogs out of the garden
Check out this homemade carpet deodorizer for pets.
Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.