I am a Traveling Sitter and before I get my first stay I was wondering what are some ideal Meet & Greet Question that you normally as potential clients who either have a cat and/or dog that they would like me to watch? As well as for dog (or cat. You never know!) walking?
You should ask the aboves and also how they are with other animals, dogs, cats, squirels, people, adults and kids. - if it's for a cat are they allowed outside? (even if they are i would not let them out until you know the cat well -are they an escape artist? -are there holes or loose/weak spots in the fence? do they try to jump the fence? -what brand and formula do you feed -where are things like paper towles, cleaner, carpet cleaner, fire extinguisher, flasklights, kennels/carriers kept -who else has access to the home (ask this so you don't think their relative checking in is a robber) and will they be coming by
You'll want to ask them:
You'll find that the owner will be asking you a lot of questions since you'd be staying in their home. I always wrap it up asking the owner if they have any questions for me. From there, you can talk about booking.
What breed, size, age is your dog?
If the dog is under a year old has the puppy been through basic obedience?
Does your dog get along with other dogs?
Does your dog have a tendency to bark?
Does your dog have any anxiety or fearful behaviors?
Drop off and pick up times:
Emergency contact information:
In addition to answers provided:
Ask them to show you their preferred walking route in their neighborhood if there is one.
Ask for their vet name, address, phone and after hours vet information and confirm who to contact if emergency Also request they authorize and give consent for you to contact vet re. care if they can't be reached (some contact their vet and tell them the name of sitter before the stay; for those that don't I ask them to date, sign, and write a simple statement of authorization to treat on a sheet of paper that is readily accessible, like in the kitchen.)
How do they prefer to be contacted (phone, text, email, etc.)?
Regular routines at home (especially if exercise or anti-anxiety measures)
House rules, such as where dog and you are/are not allowed, expectations regarding kitchen, phone/internet/TV, etc. privleges
Also ask what is the dog afraid of (thunderstorms, vacuum cleaners, etc) and how does the owner normally handle the situation? Ask if the dog is crate trained and is used to being confined if needed.
Here are my questions:
What type of dog do you have?
What is his/her weight and age?
Does he/she get along with other dogs or animals?
What is his/her temperament?
Is he/she active?
Any on-going ailments or issues I need to know about?
Does he/she listen to basic commands?
What is his/her favorite toy, foods and snacks?
Do you have an emergency number handy and is the person reliable?
What is the veterinary contact information?
What do you do in a situation where a dog who was playful gets aggressive with your dog, in other words a sudden bite...?
..**Myself, I would get my dog out of harms way by pulling on the leash, shout at the other dog while looking for the owner, and use my bullhorn!
-- and you?
Aside from all the awesome answer above, I also ask whether the dog is spayed/neutered(if you have any problem with this) and whether they are up-to-date with their shots and flea treatment or have any fleas.
Great!! I am adding this one under issues or concerns I need to know about. Thanks Diana!
I once had a dog owner say that their dog's back left leg tends to get worn out after heavy exercise or play and not to worry if that happens, so I like to ask if they have any special limitations, quirks, etc.
I have a list made up with all these questions that I can hand the pet owner to fill out. One question not seen, the pets last flea treatment. Having our house filled with them once was enough.
I ask specifics on what they're looking for from me: do they want dogs walked, how much time would they like me to spend with their pets, how many times per day (I usually upfront say 2-3 times a day plus 1 walk if wanted) and if there are any special games/toys that might make their pets more comfortable.
With cats be sure to ask if they're allowed outside and if you need to change litter.
And this is important- where do they want you to put the poop after walks. =)
any food aggression, very important if there is any history of aggression towards other in house pet, commands to keep the training, how many treats per day, behavior with unknowns dogs during walks
I always ask if they have special instructions for me. This is a non-confrontational question that allows pet parents to mention things like "Fuzzy does not like to get too close to strange dogs on his walk". If they have no instructions, I just ask what "Fuzzy" enjoys doing (walking, playing ball, treats, etc.). I hope this helps.
What does the dog enjoy the most? Walks, runs, cuddle time. Allergies? Feeding schedule?