Questions to ask a dog walker or pet sitter before you book

The walk

1. Is the walk time counted from my door, or from when you start walking?
2. Will my dog walk alone or in a group? If a group, how many dogs, and do you mix big and small?
3. Do you ever let dogs off leash?
4. What do you do in heavy rain, smoke days or ice?

If something goes wrong

1. Which vet will you take my dog to, and who pays at the counter?
2. How do you reach me, and how fast do you expect a reply?
3. Who walks my dog when you are sick or your car breaks down?
4. Do you carry liability insurance that covers a dog hurt in your care? Can you send the certificate?

Keys and the house

1. Where do you keep my key and alarm code?
2. Does anyone else on your team get them?
3. Will you send a photo or note after each visit?

If they board pets in their own home

King County's Public Health permit does not apply to boarding three or fewer dogs or cats, or to care in your home. (King County) If a sitter boards more than that at their place, ask:

1. How many animals stay with you at once?
2. Which permit or license do you hold, and who issued it?

In unincorporated Pierce County, boarding dogs or cats for owners needs a Boarding Kennel or Cattery license, which expires each December 31. (Pierce County)

The business side

1. Do you charge per walk or by the hour, and what counts as a walk?
2. What do holidays, weekends and last-minute bookings add?
3. What name do I pay? Washington requires a business license once a business grosses $12,000 a year. (Washington DOR)

Next

Read the red flags and which pet businesses need a permit, or browse walkers by city in the directory.