Arranging a pet sitter for your dog or cat for the first time can feel a little daunting. After all, you’re trusting someone with the care of your pet and, in some cases, with access to your home. That’s why Pawshake guides you through the process step by step, while making sure you always remain in control.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how a booking works, what to look out for, and what’s worth discussing in advance.
Step 1: Send an enquiry
A booking starts with sending a request via Pawshake. Choose the service you need and your preferred dates, then send the sitter a message.
In your first message, be sure to include:
which pet or pets the booking is for
age and a short description of their personality
any medical needs or special requirements
your expectations of the sitter
This allows the sitter to quickly assess whether the booking is a good fit.
Step 2: The sitter responds
After you’ve sent your request, the first contact takes place via the Pawshake chat. This is where you can ask questions, align expectations, and see whether you’re a good match.
If the sitter is available and positive about your request, you can arrange a meet & greet in person.
Step 3: Meet & greet
The meet & greet is there to help you decide whether you’re a good match. It’s also required to be eligible for the Pawshake Guarantee, which gives you extra peace of mind during your booking.
During the meet & greet, you can discuss:
your pet’s personality and behaviour
daily routines (feeding, walks, playtime, sleep)
where supplies are kept and what is or isn’t allowed in your home
medication and health-related needs
for home visits or dog walking: keys and access to your home
how and how often you’d like to receive updates
Pay close attention to how the sitter interacts with your pet.
This is also the moment to exchange important details, such as:
your phone number (and your partner’s, if applicable)
a local emergency contact
details of anyone else who has a spare key
your vet’s address and phone number
If it doesn’t feel right during or after the meet & greet, you don’t have to go ahead with the booking. It’s perfectly fine to continue your search for the perfect sitter.
Are you happy with your sitter? Does it feel right for both of you? Then you can go ahead and confirm the booking.
Step 4: Finalise and pay for the booking
You can now finalise the booking in your Pawshake chat by clicking the Book button. You then complete the payment securely via Pawshake.
Important to know:
Payments are always processed through Pawshake
A booking is only confirmed once payment has been completed and the sitter has approved the booking request.
If the sitter declines the booking request, the payment will be automatically refunded to you within a few days.
Pawshake securely holds the payment and only releases it to the sitter after the booking has been completed.
This way, you benefit from the Pawshake Guarantee and support if anything unexpected happens.
Step 5: During the booking
During the booking, the sitter keeps you updated with messages or photos. This gives you peace of mind while you’re away.
If anything changes or something unexpected happens, communication takes place via Pawshake, so support is always available.
Step 6: After the booking
After the booking, you can leave an honest review for your sitter. Reviews help other pet owners make an informed choice and are greatly appreciated by sitters as well.
Privacy and safety
Pawshake never automatically shares addresses or phone numbers between pet owners and sitters. You’re always in control of which details you share and when. Payments are handled securely via our payment provider, Stripe, and sitters are only paid after the booking has been completed.
To wrap up:
Any succesful booking starts with clear expectations and mutual trust. By planning a meet & greet and asking all your questions upfront, you lay the foundation for a smooth and worry-free pet-sitting experience.
Pawshake provides the structure and security — you decide who you trust with your pet.
Find your Pawshake sitter here
Enjoy your holiday!
