Finding the right dog sitter in Christchurch can feel overwhelming. You want someone who’ll treat your furry family member with the same love and care you do, but how do you know who to trust?
After years of caring for hundreds of Christchurch dogs (and meeting plenty of worried pet parents!), I’ve put together this complete guide to help you choose a dog sitter who’ll give you peace of mind and give your dog the five-star experience they deserve.
What to Look for in a Christchurch Dog Sitter
1. Professional Experience and Qualifications
A great dog sitter should have more than just a love of dogs. Look for:
Documented experience – How long have they been dog sitting professionally? Ask for references from other Christchurch pet owners.
Animal care knowledge – Do they understand dog behaviour, body language, and basic first aid? A professional dog sitter should be able to spot when something’s not quite right with your pup.
Insurance and safety protocols – Professional dog sitters carry public liability insurance and have clear safety procedures in place. This protects both you and your dog.
Police vetting – Since they’ll have access to your home, a professional dog sitter should have a current police check. Don’t be afraid to ask to see it.
2. Clear Communication and Technology
In 2024, there’s no excuse for radio silence when it comes to your dog’s care.
Look for a dog sitter who:
- Sends regular updates with photos and videos
- Uses professional booking software (not just text messages!)
- Responds promptly to your questions
- Provides detailed visit reports
- Has a clear system for emergency contact
I use Time to Pet booking software with all my clients, which means automatic confirmations, real-time updates, and visit reports sent straight to your phone. You shouldn’t have to wonder whether your dog’s been walked today – you should know!
3. Personalised Care Plans
Every dog is different. Fluffy might need her special cushion in exactly the right spot, while Max requires his medication hidden in a specific type of cheese (and not that other cheese, thank you very much!).
Your dog sitter should:
- Take detailed notes during the initial meet and greet
- Ask questions about your dog’s routine, preferences, and quirks
- Be willing to follow your specific instructions
- Adapt to your dog’s individual needs
Red flag: A dog sitter who uses a one-size-fits-all approach or seems rushed during your consultation.
4. Flexible, Reliable Service
Life doesn’t always go to plan. Your flight gets delayed, your meeting runs late, or you decide to extend your holiday by a few days.
A good dog sitter should offer:
- Flexible scheduling options
- Last-minute availability (when possible)
- Consistent, punctual visits
- Coverage for public holidays and weekends
- A backup plan if they’re unwell
5. Love for What They Do
This might sound fluffy, but you can tell when someone genuinely loves animals. Look for a dog sitter who:
- Gets excited talking about their furry clients
- Shares stories and photos with permission
- Goes the extra mile (bringing special treats, playing their favourite game, sending you a video because your dog did something adorable)
- Treats your pet like they’re special (because they are!)
Essential Questions to Ask a Potential Dog Sitter
Before you hand over your house keys and precious pup, ask these questions:
- How long have you been dog sitting in Christchurch?
- Do you have public liability insurance and a current police check?
- What happens in an emergency? (Who’s their backup vet? What’s their protocol?)
- How do you handle multiple clients? (Will they be rushing between visits?)
- Can you provide references from other Christchurch pet owners?
- What information do you need about my dog? (Detailed notes = good sign!)
- How will you keep me updated during visits?
- What’s included in your standard visit? (Fresh water? Playtime? Cuddles?)
- Do you have experience with [your dog’s specific needs]? (Medication, anxiety, special diet, etc.)
- What areas of Christchurch do you service?
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Warning signs include:
- Reluctance to do a meet and greet
- No insurance or police vetting
- Poor communication or slow responses
- No online presence or reviews
- Prices that seem too good to be true
- They don’t ask questions about your dog
- They seem more focused on access to your home than caring for your pet
- No contract or terms of service
- They juggle too many clients (your dog deserves focused attention!)
The Meet and Greet: Your Most Important Step
Never, ever book a dog sitter without meeting them first. A proper meet and greet should include:
At your home – So your dog is comfortable and the sitter can see where everything is (food, leads, medication, your dog’s favourite nap spots).
With your dog present – Watch how they interact. Does your dog warm to them? Do they get down on your dog’s level? Do they seem genuinely interested in your pup?
Time for questions – Both ways! A good sitter will ask lots of questions about your dog’s routine, health, and personality.
A trial run – Consider booking a single visit before you commit to a longer booking. This gives both you and your dog a chance to see if it’s a good fit.
What a Professional Dog Sitting Visit Should Include
When you book a dog sitter in Christchurch, here’s what you should expect as standard:
Home visits that include:
- Fresh food and water
- Playtime and cuddles
- Bathroom breaks (with cleanup!)
- Basic home security checks (mail, blinds, plants)
- Medication administration if needed
- Photo or video updates
- Written visit reports
Dog walking that includes:
- Age and fitness-appropriate route and duration
- Safety equipment (secure harness/collar, lead)
- Cleanup supplies (poo bags!)
- Fresh water offered after the walk
- Updates about how the walk went
Optional extras might include:
- Bringing in mail and packages
- Watering plants
- Alternating lights and blinds
- Administering medication
- Special playtime or enrichment activities
Why Christchurch Pet Parents Choose Professional Dog Sitters
You might be wondering whether a professional dog sitter is worth it compared to asking a friend or neighbour. Here’s what professional dog sitting offers:
Reliability – Your friend might forget or have their own emergency. A professional has backup plans.
Expertise – Professional sitters know dog behaviour, can spot health issues early, and handle unexpected situations.
No guilt – You’re paying for a service, not asking for favours.
Insurance and accountability – If something goes wrong, you’re protected.
Consistency – Your dog gets the same high standard of care every single time.
Peace of mind – You can actually enjoy your time away knowing your dog is in capable hands.
Christchurch-Specific Considerations
Living in Christchurch means a few extra things to consider:
Earthquake preparedness – Does your dog sitter know where your emergency supplies are? Do they have a plan for securing your pet in an emergency?
Local knowledge – A Christchurch-based sitter knows the best dog-friendly spots, local vets, and can navigate our suburbs easily.
Weather adaptability – Our weather can be unpredictable! Your sitter should be prepared for nor’westers, southerlies, and everything in between.
Suburb coverage – Make sure they service your area. Some sitters only cover certain Christchurch suburbs.
How Much Does Dog Sitting Cost in Christchurch?
While prices vary, here’s what you can generally expect in Christchurch:
Home visits: $25-$60 per visit (usually 30 minutes) Dog walks: $30-$80 per walk (usually 30-60 minutes) Overnight stays: $60-$120 per night
Remember: the cheapest option isn’t always the best option. You’re trusting someone with your beloved pet and your home security. Quality, reliability, insurance, training, and peace of mind are worth paying for.
Making Your Final Decision
After you’ve met a few potential dog sitters, sit down and compare:
- Who did your dog respond to best?
- Who made you feel most comfortable and confident?
- Who asked the most thorough questions?
- Who has the systems and professionalism you need?
- Who fits your budget while meeting your standards?
Trust your instincts. If someone ticks all the boxes but something still feels off, keep looking. Your gut is usually right.
Your Dog Deserves the Best
Choosing a dog sitter in Christchurch doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right questions, a proper meet and greet, and attention to the details that matter, you can find someone who’ll love your dog almost as much as you do.
And when you find that perfect sitter? Hold onto them! Great dog sitters are worth their weight in gold (or dog treats, which is basically the same thing!).
Frequently Asked Questions for Choosing a Dog Sitter in Christchurch
How far in advance should I book a dog sitter in Christchurch?
For regular weekly walks, a week or two notice is usually fine. For holidays (especially school holidays, Christmas, and Easter), book at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Popular dog sitters fill up quickly during peak times!
What if my dog has anxiety or special needs?
A professional dog sitter should be experienced with anxious dogs and special requirements. During your meet and greet, discuss your dog’s specific needs in detail. Look for a sitter who asks lots of questions, suggests strategies, and has experience with similar situations. Many dogs with anxiety actually do better with home visits than boarding kennels.
Should I leave a key or use a lockbox?
Professional dog sitters often use lockboxes or key safes rather than keeping your physical key. This is more secure for you – if a sitter loses clients’ keys, that’s a serious security issue. Lockboxes mean your code can be changed between sitters, and you control access. Ask what your sitter’s key management policy is.
What happens if my dog gets sick or injured while I’m away?
Your dog sitter should have a clear emergency protocol. They should have your vet’s details, your emergency contact information, and your permission to seek veterinary care if needed. Discuss this before you travel, including your budget for emergency vet care and who makes the final decisions.
Do I need to be home for every visit?
No! That’s the whole point of a dog sitter. However, do be home for your initial meet and greet. After that, your sitter will let themselves in using the agreed method (lockbox, key safe, etc.). You’ll receive updates and reports so you know when visits happen.
Can a dog sitter give my dog medication?
Yes, professional dog sitters can administer medication. During your meet and greet, show them exactly how to give the medication, where it’s stored, and what time it needs to be given. Make sure they’re comfortable with the process and understand the dosage.
What’s the difference between dog sitting and dog walking?
Dog sitting typically means home visits where your sitter feeds, waters, plays with, and toilets your dog while you’re away. Dog walking is specifically taking your dog out for exercise. Many dog sitters offer both services. Be clear about what you’re booking!
How do I know if my dog sitter is actually visiting?
Professional dog sitters use booking software that timestamps visits and sends you confirmation. You should also receive photos or videos during each visit. If a sitter can’t provide proof of visits, that’s a red flag.
What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
Ask about the cancellation policy before you book. Professional dog sitters usually require 24-48 hours notice for cancellations. Last-minute cancellations may incur a fee, as the sitter has held that time for you and may have turned away other clients.
Is it safe to give a dog sitter access to my home?
When you choose a professional dog sitter with proper police vetting, insurance, and good references, yes. Many sitters also provide extra security (alternating lights, bringing in mail, checking doors). However, never skip the police check verification, and always meet them in person first.
Looking for a reliable, professional dog sitter in Christchurch? VIPets Dog Walking and Pet Sitting offers personalised pet care with real-time updates, flexible scheduling, and lots of love for your furry family member.
Get in touch for a no-obligation meet and greet!
