How to Choose the Right Pet Sitter in Austin
Leaving your furry friend behind—whether it’s for a vacation, a work trip, or just a long day—can be stressful. That’s why finding the right Austin pet sitter and dog walker is such a big deal. You’re not just looking for someone to feed your pet and let them out—you want someone you trust, someone who truly gets animals, and someone your pet will be excited to see walk through the door. So, how do you find that person?
Here’s your go-to guide for choosing the best pet sitter in Austin, whether you’re looking for dog walking, feline check ins, or trusted pet sitting services across the city.
1. Know Your Pet’s Needs
First things first—what kind of care does your pet need? Does your dog need two long walks a day (we got you!)? Is your cat more of an observer who just needs food, water, and some chin scratches?
Every pet is different, and so is every pet sitting company. If your pet has medical needs, separation anxiety, or is just super energetic, you’ll want someone with experience in that area. The more you know about what your pet needs, the easier it is to find the right match.
2. Ask the Right Questions
When you start chatting with potential pet sitters, asking the right questions is crucial! Here are a few good ones:
- What kind of pets have you cared for before?
- Are you trained in pet first aid?
- What does your daily schedule look like?
- Do you offer updates or photos while I’m away?
Bonus points if they light up when talking about pets—passion matters! You should feel comfortable and confident by the end of the interviewing process.
3. Look for Local Experience
There’s a lot to be said for hiring someone who knows the city. Austin pet sitters who are familiar with the neighborhoods, local parks, and traffic patterns are going to be much better prepared to handle whatever your pet needs. They’ll know the best spots for a walk, how to avoid heavy traffic during a mid-day visit, and which local vets or pet stores to go to in a pinch. Whether your pup is living the high-rise life or a backyard oasis, we’ve got plenty of areas that we service and know like the back of our hand!
4. Meet & Greet
Before you commit, always do a meet-and-greet. This gives you a chance to see how your sitter interacts with your pet. Are they gentle? Confident? Does your dog wag their tail like crazy or your cat come out to investigate (that’s a win!)?
It’s also a great time to go over routines, medications, feeding schedules, and house quirks. A good sitter will take notes and ask thoughtful questions.
5. Check Reviews & References
Word of mouth is huge. Check for online reviews of Austin pet sitting services and dog walking services or ask around in your neighborhood groups. People love to talk about great pet sitters—and they’ll definitely warn you about bad ones. If you’re hiring an independent sitter, don’t hesitate to ask for references.
P.S. We’re proud to say we’ve got a 5-star rating—because pets (and their humans) love us that much. 😉
6. Why Book With Us?
We get it—finding someone to care for your pet is personal. That’s why we’re proud to offer experienced, loving Austin pet sitters who treat your pets like their own. Whether you need daily dog walks in Austin, reliable cat sitting, or just someone to pop in for a midday cuddle, we’re here to help. With flexible scheduling, real-time updates, and a genuine love for animals, you can feel confident every time you book with us. See what makes us different here.
Whether you’re heading out of town or just need an extra hand during the week, finding the right pet sitter doesn’t have to be ruff (ha). Take your time, do the research, and don’t settle for anything less than someone who truly cares about your furry family member.
Ready to meet your pet’s new BFF? Contact us today to learn more about our Austin pet sitting and dog walking services!
