We've been in business for a long time and we've seen our share of low cost alternatives. While we are not in competition with them for your business we do want to share our thoughts to help you make a sound decision.
No Credentials. Most of these providers are not licensed to do business and they don't have insurance or a bond. It is wise to choose someone who places value and professionalism on the service they are providing. Are they bonded and insured? Are they licensed to do business? (you can check with the city) Are they a member of the Chamber of Commerce? Look for signs that they are legitimate and have a professional business presence in the community.
No Accountability. Hobby pet sitters without a business don't have a reputation at stake. There are no documented reviews and they don't have a presence with a professional network. Be wary of trusting anyone in this position.
No Structure. While professional businesses offer a local manager you can always reach and online scheduling with GPS tracking to show you their location and time of arrival and completion, hobbyists don't have these safeguards. We have heard from so many pet parents who call us in a panic that their pet sitter didn't show up, they can't reach them and they don't know if their pets have been cared for since they left for vacation. Yikes. In one situation, the pet owner called the hobbyist who said she was at their house yet they were watching their security cameras and she wasn't! They abandoned their travel and made the 5 hour drive home. This isn't possible when you have flown to your destination.
Very Low Cost. Be skeptical over a business or hobbyist that offers a rate that seems too good to be true. When you consider the travel time and expense between jobs and that, with travel time, it can easily take almost an hour to do a 30 minute visit, how do they support such low wages? Are they invested in the care they provide?
We've all heard the saying "You get what you pay for". We know it is true when we hire team members and we are selective in our hiring process. It is also proven true in any service-oriented business from landscaping to home improvement projects to auto mechanics. The difference in our industry is that, not only are you giving someone the key to your home, lives are at stake. There is a lot riding on your choice.
What should you do? If budget is your primary concern and you are not able to afford a professional service, with all of the benefits that come with that service, we would strongly recommend choosing a family member or close friend that you know and trust.
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