Hiring a dog walker or an overnight sitter is a luxury service that you have to be willing to splurge on. In Tampa Bay, Florida, drop-in visits and dog walking generally cost $25-$30 per 30-minute visit which includes a potty break, feeding, and fresh water. House Sitting Overnights where the sitter sleeps in your home with your pets will cost you approximately $70-$160 per night depending on the pet sitter or pet sitting company that you choose.
If you have more than one pet, you can plan to add $10 per additional pet. Pet care companies such as Professional Pets Florida only charge for time, not number of animals. Some dog walkers and pet sitters will charge an additional fee for holidays, you can plan to add $5-$15 per visit.
If your pet is a puppy or kitten, you can also plan to add $5 per visit.
How to Choose a Pet Sitter in Tampa Bay, Florida
1) Be sure the pet sitter is a professional: you donโt want the neighborhood 12 year old with no experience sitting your beloved fur children. Animal lover does not equal experience.
2) Choose one that has a business license and is insured/bonded (https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/search/)
3) Check references you receive from the pet sitter or read reviews thoroughly, a professional will have reviews on social media like Facebook or Google.
4) Ask if they are trained in pet CPR and First Aid, if they claim they are, require a copy of the certificate (this certification course needs to be completed every 2 years per industry requirements).
5) Pay attention at your meet and greet! You should feel comfortable with your sitter naturally.
6) They should have professional items: such as contracts, payment arrangements, cancellation policies, and their plan during a medical emergency. Professional Pets Florida utilizes Operation Lockbox as an added safety measure for your home.
7) Be clear and concise in your expectations: Make sure everything is spelled out, so you both have the same understanding about what is required of them.
