team member faq
faq
Do I need formal training?
Previous pet sitting experience is preferred, but no formal training is required to join our team. Critter Sitters provides 2 weeks of hands on training and pet handler training. Speaking the pet language and having a natural connection and bond with animals is a must
What does the hiring process entail?
All Sitters will fill out an application, complete a series of online assessments, complete a phone interview, attend an in-person interview, and complete a 1 day "ride along assessment." If hired, the Sitter will submit to a background check, reference check from previous employer(s), and complete a pet handling course.
Once hired, all of our positions position require a full 30-day Training Period, in which employee will be trained on all aspects of the job. Employee must prove satisfactory results in on-site job performance, and complete multiple written assessments and training ride-alongs.
What does CS provide, and what am I required to provide?
All Sitters must have a current Drivers License, a reliable car, clean driving history and up-to-date full coverage car insurance. All Sitters are required to own their own personal gear (clothing, shoes, coats, socks, scarves, raincoats, etc). Critter Sitters does provide a cell phone allowance, shirts and sweatshirts, and any tool required to perform on the job pet duties (poo bags, treats, leashes, safety tools, fanny packs, walking apparatus, etc).
What types of services would I perform?
Services we provide are 15-minute visits, 30-minute visits, and 45-minute visits. We administer medication, walk a lot, clean up after messes, feed, water, play, and make every pet feel safe and secure while their humans are away with ample attention and love. No one day is the same - the duties vary based on each Clients needs and who is using our service during the time you are working. All of our Clients customize their routines, so our team has to be flexible, strong communicators, self motivated and have a very strong pet instinct. In addition to taking care of our pets, we also take care of our Clients homes, which is a huge responsibility within itself! Duties include securing the home, watering plants, alternating lights, retrieving mail, packages and newspapers, keeping the house tidy and taking out the trash.
Would I care for aggressive pets?
All new clients go through pre-consultation. During this consultation, the personality and temperament of every pet is evaluated. Critter Sitters values both the safety of our sitters and the pets we care for and will not service a client if the pet is deemed unsafe for us to perform our duties. However, pets are unpredictable and react to people differently. Because of this unpredictability there are times when a pet may act aggressively towards you and Critter Sitters has a system in place to handle such situations.
What types of pets would I care for?
Critter Sitters cares for all animals great and small. This includes a variety of farm animals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, small rodents, fish, cats and dogs.
When am I expected to work?
Sitter hours vary based on reservations, client needs, and the time of year. We have Daily Dog Walkers and Night/Weekend Sitters. Hours will vary based on this employee classification.
How many hours should I expect to work a week?
Daily Walkers average 20-35 hours a week
Night/Weekend Sitters average 15-25 hours a week
