Do College Students Make Good Contract Pet Sitters?

This week I’ve interviewed two new prospective pet sitters that contacted me through my web site “Join Our Team” form. The interviews went well and it took me less time than ever to get prepared as I now have a well defined hiring process. I’m going ot share this with you in the coming weeks.

Both applicants turned out to be college students that are available for the summer and Christmas holiday periods only. I enjoyed meeting both applicants - they were outgoing and positive and have plenty of great experience with pets - both have their own and have taken care of pets for family and friends and one has also worked with pet rescue organizations.

A few years ago I considered putting up flyers at local colleges to attract pet sitters but it’s one of the good ideas that I didn’t ever get around to putting into action. However, I had not considered students with families in my service area that travel to college in other cities.

Now I’m beginning to think that taking on these students as high season contract sitters is a pretty good idea. I always struggle with the rush of clients in summer, and at Thanksgiving and Christmas. I don’t want to take on more sitters at these times and then disappoint them when I don’t have ongoing visits to keep them busy the rest of the year.

Having a contract sitter that is available just in those peak seasons could work out very well and allow me to have extra sitters available only when I need them.

I’m going to give these gals a chance this year and see how this strategy works. I’ll let you know what happens!

Does anyone have experience working with college student seasonal sitters? How has it worked for you? Did you have any customer resistance to younger sitters (between age of 18 and 21?)

Owning a pet business does not guarantee you success, but it is generally not difficult to set up your own pet business adn many who own pet businesses love the hard working lifestyle and the closeness to pets. You will have to compete with those who may be better trained, may have lower cost structures and those who “pretend” to have your skills and experience when they do not. (eg not all those who advertise themselves as groomers are actually Groomers).

There are also key skills that all dog industry professionals should possess. Here are some of the most critical skills and abilities for those hoping to work with dogs professionally: Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills, ability to recognize behavioral signals.

Animals can be somewhat unpredictable when they are under stress or in an unfamiliar environment, like when they visit the veterinary office or the grooming salon, so it is important to be attentive and stay aware of the animal you are handling at all times.