17 Pet Sitter Interview Questions and Answers

If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting might be the perfect job for you. As a pet sitter, you’re responsible for taking care of the pets of your clients while they’re away. This might include feeding them, taking them for walks, and providing them with love and attention.

If you’re interested in becoming a pet sitter, you’ll likely need to go through an interview process. This guide will help you prepare for some of the most common pet sitter interview questions. By knowing what to expect, you’ll be able to give thoughtful, concise answers that will show the interviewer that you’re the perfect person for the job.

Are you comfortable caring for pets that are aggressive or have special needs?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with pets that may require more attention or care. Use your answer to highlight any special training you’ve had in caring for animals that need extra support and how you managed those situations.

Example: “I have worked with several aggressive dogs before, but I always make sure to follow proper safety precautions when entering their home. For example, I only enter a dog’s home alone if they are calm and never leave them unattended. If I notice an increase in aggression, I will contact the owner immediately so we can discuss what is happening and decide on a plan of action.”

What are some of the most important qualities of a successful pet sitter?

Employers ask this question to see if you have the skills and abilities needed for the job. They want someone who is responsible, organized, compassionate and trustworthy. When answering this question, think about what makes you a good pet sitter. Try to focus on your own personal qualities rather than those of others.

Example: “I believe that one of the most important qualities of a successful pet sitter is compassion. You need to genuinely care about animals in order to do this job well. I love spending time with pets because they are so loving and affectionate. Another quality is patience. Pets can be unpredictable at times, which means you need to stay calm when things don’t go as planned. Patience also helps me communicate effectively with owners.”

How would you handle a situation where a pet is sick or injured while you are caring for them?

Pet sitters may need to administer medication or care for an ill or injured pet. Interviewers want to know that you have experience with this type of situation and how you would handle it. In your answer, describe a time when you cared for a sick or injured animal and the steps you took to ensure their health and safety.

Example: “When I worked as a dog walker, I encountered a client whose dog had recently undergone surgery. The owner asked me to take the dog on walks while they were at work so they could rest. During one of our walks, the dog pulled away from me and started limping. I immediately called the owner and told them what was happening. They instructed me to bring the dog back home and call the vet. After speaking with the vet, we decided to keep the dog inside until the next day when the owner returned to work.”

What is your process for caring for multiple pets at once?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you prioritize your work and manage multiple tasks. Your answer should include a specific process for handling multiple pets at once, including any tools or techniques you use to stay organized.

Example: “I always start by greeting each pet individually before bringing them together. This helps me get to know each animal’s personality and preferences so I can make sure they’re comfortable with one another. Once all of the animals are in the same room, I introduce them slowly while keeping an eye out for signs of aggression or discomfort. If I notice any issues, I’ll separate the pets again until they feel more comfortable.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to care for an animal that was grieving the loss of their owner.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle difficult situations and whether you have experience with them. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, empathy and compassion for animals in need.

Example: “I once cared for a dog who was grieving the loss of his owner. The dog would often cry out at night, which made it hard for me to get any sleep. I decided to spend more time with him during the day so he could get used to my presence. After a few days, he started sleeping through the night again. He also seemed happier when I came over each day.”

If a pet owner gave you specific instructions on how to care for their pet, how would you handle it if they were not present?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would handle a situation where you have to make decisions on your own. Use examples from previous experience in which you followed instructions and still managed to care for the pet successfully.

Example: “If I were working with a client who was not present, I would first read through any notes they left me about their pet’s needs or preferences. Then, I would call them if I had any questions or concerns. If I didn’t get an answer, I would do my best to follow their instructions as closely as possible.”

What would you do if a client’s pet started to act aggressively towards you?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would handle a potentially dangerous situation. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure your safety and that of the pet.

Example: “If I encountered an aggressive animal, I would first try to calm it down by speaking in a soothing voice. If this didn’t work, I would leave the home immediately so as not to put myself or the pet at risk. Once outside, I would call the client to let them know what happened and ask if they have any suggestions for calming their pet. Then, I would wait until the client arrived before going back inside.”

How well do you handle being away from your own pets?

Pet sitters often have to leave their own pets at home while they work. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle being away from your own pet for a few hours or more. In your answer, share that you understand the importance of leaving your own pet behind and how it’s good for them. Explain that you are willing to do what is best for the client’s pet.

Example: “I love my dog so much, but I know he would be better off staying at home when I go to work. He gets anxious if I’m not around him all day, so I think it’s important to leave him at home where he feels safe. I am happy to take care of other people’s pets while I leave mine at home.”

Do you have any experience with farm animals?

If the client has a farm, they may need someone who can care for their animals. This question helps them determine if you have experience with this type of animal and how comfortable you are working with them. If you don’t have any experience with farm animals, explain what types of animals you do work with.

Example: “I’ve worked with all kinds of pets in my previous role as a pet sitter. I also volunteered at an animal shelter where I helped care for many different types of farm animals. I learned how to handle large animals like horses and small ones like chickens.”

When is it appropriate to leave a pet unattended?

Interviewers may ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of keeping pets safe at all times. They want to know that you will never leave a pet alone for long periods of time and that you have strategies in place to keep them occupied while you’re away. In your answer, explain what situations would be appropriate to leave a pet unattended and which ones would not.

Example: “I always try my best to ensure I’m never leaving a pet unattended. However, if it’s absolutely necessary, I’ll only do so when they are comfortable with their surroundings and there is someone else home who can check on them regularly. For example, if I’m watching a dog and its owner leaves for work before me, I’ll stay until they get home or find someone else to watch the dog.”

We want to be able to count on you to care for pets even when you are sick. How would you handle being sick while caring for a pet?

This question is designed to assess your commitment to the job and how you would handle a challenging situation. Your answer should show that you are willing to do what’s best for the pet even if it means missing work.

Example: “I understand that pets need care regardless of their owners’ health, so I would make sure they have everything they need before leaving them alone. If I were too sick to leave my home, I would ask a friend or family member to check on the pet until I was well enough to resume caring for them.”

Describe your process for bonding with a new pet.

When you’re hired as a pet sitter, your client will likely want to know that their pets are in good hands. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with new animals and can help them feel comfortable when they leave for vacation. In your answer, describe the steps you take to ensure your clients’ pets feel safe and secure while they’re away.

Example: “When I first meet a new animal, I like to spend some time getting to know them on their own terms. I’ll let them sniff me and get used to my presence before trying to interact with them. Once they seem comfortable, I’ll start talking to them and offering treats so they associate my voice with something positive. After a few days of bonding, I’ll be able to pick up the phone or knock on the door and they’ll come running.”

What makes you an effective pet sitter?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have the skills and experience necessary for this role. Use examples from your previous job experiences to highlight your abilities as a pet sitter, such as communication skills, problem-solving ability or organizational skills.

Example: “I am passionate about animals and their well-being. I understand how important it is to treat pets with love and care while they’re in my care. In my last position, I was responsible for administering medication to dogs and cats who were ill. I always made sure to follow the instructions of the veterinarian when giving out medications. This helped me build strong relationships with clients and their pets.”

Which pet sitting certifications or licenses do you hold?

Employers may ask this question to learn more about your experience and qualifications. If you have certifications or licenses, be sure to list them in your answer. You can also mention any other relevant experience that makes you a good candidate for the job.

Example: “I am certified as a pet first aid responder through Pet Sitters International. I’ve also completed training on how to administer medication to pets. In addition, I hold my animal care technician certification from the American Veterinary Medical Association.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of pet aftercare?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of pet care and how you can help a client. You should answer this question by explaining what you think is the most important aspect of aftercare, but also include some specific examples of how you’ve helped clients with that aspect in the past.

Example: “I believe the most important part of pet aftercare is making sure they’re comfortable when their owners return home. I always make sure my clients’ pets have plenty of food and water, along with any medications or supplements they need. If there are any special instructions for feeding or caring for their pet while they’re away, I write those down so I know exactly what to do when their owners get home.”

How often do you think pet owners should leave their pets unattended?

Pet owners often need to leave their pets alone for a few hours at a time. Employers want to know that you understand the importance of this and can handle it responsibly. In your answer, explain how you would ensure the pet’s safety while its owner is away.

Example: “I think it’s important to have someone check in on the pet every couple of hours. I always make sure to give them plenty of water and food when I arrive so they don’t get hungry or thirsty during my shift. If there are any issues, like if the dog starts barking or the cat hides under the bed, I will immediately call the owner to let them know what’s going on.”

There is a pet supply shortage in your area. You can only care for one pet. Who do you choose?

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills. It also shows the interviewer that you are willing to make tough decisions and prioritize what’s best for each pet. Your answer should show that you understand how important pets are to their owners, and you will do everything in your power to ensure they’re safe and well cared for.

Example: “I would choose the senior pet because I know it can be difficult to find supplies for them. If I couldn’t care for either of them, I would try my best to find someone who could.”