Just Say NO!

We often receive calls from new and experienced pet sitters who have left an initial consultation with a new client feeling uneasy.

 

Sometimes they feel uncomfortable with a seemingly aggressive pet, although the owner insists that the pet "wouldn't harm a fly." Other times, it may be that the potential client is making unreasonable demands or trying to negotiate a much lower price than the pet sitter charges.  For new sitters especially, the desire to gain additional clients, combined with an insecurity in their business policies, causes them to give in to such demands.  On both a professional and personal level, this can be a grave mistake. 

 

When should you say NO?

 

As a professional pet sitter, you promise your clients an extraordinary level of service, which includes specific services and quality play time with their pet.  Below are a few examples of instances where saying "no" can make a huge difference for your business:

 

1.  Aggressive Pets

Liability is a major concern.  Taking an assignment against your better judgment can result in tragedy.  The pet may injure another pet or person, or perhaps escape from the pet sitter.  The impact on the sitter's insurance coverage or personal finances can be devastating.  Moreover, an aggressive pet could bite or injure the pet sitter, resulting in hospital bills and lost wages--definitely not a good situation for any pet sitter!

 

2.  Negotiating Your Rates

When questioned about rates, many pet sitters are unsure how to respond.  Clients may argue that their pets do not require much care or that a previous pet sitter charged less.  It is important to remember that you operate a business that provides an essential pet-care service.  While you may be tempted to offer a discount in these situations, discounting your rates because of pressure from a client essentially shortchanges you as a business owner.  In addition, confusion may result in your bookkeeping and advertising if you do not establish and stick to consistent rates with your clients.

 

3.  Last-Minute Requests.

Particularly around the holidays, it is difficult to turn away clients who call--especially last-minute "emergency" calls--for pet sitting.  Of course, if you can fit the client into your schedule, it's okay to help a pet owner in need.  However, overbooking can have serious ramifications.  As a pet sitter, you promise your clients a certain level of quality, specific services you can provide and time to spend with their pets.  When overbooked and unable to provide your typical quality service, both the pets in your care and your professional reputation may suffer.