Why are communication skills so important for a pet sitter?
There's so much more to pet sitting than just feeding, watering, and cuddling pets! Communicating skills are essential for pet sitters to have when building trust with clients and ensuring the safety and well-being of their furry companions. It's also a critical skill that will help you to avoid conflict based on misunderstandings.
Here are a few tips for smooth communication with pet owners:
Be clear and consistent
Whether it's through email, text, or phone calls, make sure that you read your client's instructions closely It can help to send the pet owner a template to fill in with useful information. This might include feeding and exercise schedules, emergency contact information, and any specific concerns the client has about their pet.
Be responsive and reliable
Be sure to respond to all messages as soon as possible and keep your Pawshake calendar updated. It also really helps to let your clients know when to expect you to be checking in on their pets. If you're running late or have to cancel a visit, let the pet owner know as soon as possible so they can make alternative arrangements.
Be proactive
If you notice something out of the ordinary with a pet, such as an unusual behavior or health concern, let the pet owner know right away. This shows that you're paying attention to their pet's needs and that you care about their well-being.
Be honest and transparent
If there's a problem that comes up while caring for a client's pet, it's important to be upfront about it. This shows that you're trustworthy and that you're taking responsibility for any issues that may arise.
Share your love for pets with your clients
Your clients trust you with the safety and well-being of their beloved fur kids. As such, it's important to show them that you truly care! Be sure to share your pet-sitting experience with them, including caring for your own pets. Sharing your enthusiasm for pet care is a great way to build trust and help your clients feel comfortable leaving their pets with you.
In addition to these tips, it's also important to have clear expectations in place, which is part of the meet-and-greet discussion. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and prevents misunderstandings.
As a pet sitter, you play an important role in the lives of your clients and their pets. By communicating effectively, you can build trust and ensure the safety and well-being of your furry clients. Furthermore, being responsive and reliable gives pet parents peace of mind for your clients.
