Interview Questions

Is bath time a part of the job description?

Better find out.

When meeting a family for the first time, you're interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you. You'll want to find out various things about the job to make sure you're as prepared as possible and can complete your duties without any problems.

What's more, parents respect sitters who ask intelligent questions, and appear responsible and timely. These questions should help you get a feel for the family's priorities, pet care methods and more.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

• Have you had any petsitters before?
• Have you ever terminated a relationship with a petsitter? Why?
• What do you look for in a petsitter?
• Do you use a nanny cam or surveillance device?
• Do you have a cell that I can contact during a job?

BUSINESS

• What do you pay a petsitter? Do you pay any overtime if you are later than expected?
• How soon must you know in advance if I can't make it to a job?
• Will you need me to stay overnight?
• Would you like to run a background check on me?
• Would you like any more references than those I have already provided?
• Will you be having any one else (including other petsitters or house cleaners) come into the house while you are away?
• If I supply receipts, will you cover any out-of-pocket expenses I incur, such as vet fees or additional food?

THE PET(S)

• How many pets do you have and what are they?
• Tell me a little about the pets - how long have you had them, and how would you describe their personalities?
• Do any of your pets have any aggressive tendencies or do they bite?
• What allergies do your pets have, if any?
• Are your pet's vaccinations up to date?
• How often do your pets eat?
• Do you restrict the amount of treats you give them?
• Do any of the pets have special dietary needs?
• Are any of your pets taking medication right now?
• Have any of your pets been known to escape from their crates, cages or the house?
• Would you mind giving me a written breakdown of your pets' names and physical characteristics so I can easily describe them in case of emergency?

HOME LIFE AND BEHAVIORAL PREFERENCES

• Are there any rooms that are off limits to either the pets or myself?
• What is your recommendation for answering the door during a job if I don't know the person knocking?
• What are your rules for visitors?
• Are there any particular visitors who are not welcome in the home?

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• How many times a day would you need me to visit?
• Is there a set amount of time you would like me to spend during each visit?
• Are there any particular daily routines I should be aware of?
• Will you ever be asking me to travel with you or stay an overnight?
• Will you need me to pick up your mail and newspaper?
• Do you need me to water your plants?
• Would you like me to switch lights on and off so it looks like someone is home?
• Are you planning to tell your neighbors that I will be at the home, so they don't worry about an unfamiliar face or car?
• Will I be walking a dog (how often), fulfilling any vet appointments, grooming a pet, etc.?

SAFETY

• Are there any "danger areas" with chemicals, electrical equipment, steep stairs, etc. that I should be aware of?
• Could you show me how to lock all of your main doors and windows?
• Do you plan on setting an alarm while you are gone?
• Can I release information on your pets to the vet if there is an emergency?
• Could you leave me the address of a nearby relative in case of emergency?
• Could you give me the local emergency numbers for fire, police, emergency room and the number of your local vet?
• Do you have a fire extinguisher in the home?