International Dogsitting 101: How to Get Started & Helpful Tips

If you are the kind of person who has been looking for a reason to get your passport, dogs might just give you that leverage. While you might have never thought about international dogsitting, it is truly a thing and it's possible for the person who is determined enough.

Granted, it takes research, planning, upfront cost, and all other aspects to make it into a solid gig. In this article, we're going to go over exactly what international dogsitting is and how to find a gig if it suits you.

What Is International Dogsitting?

International dogsitting is basically going to watch some awesome canines in a foreign home for their owners while they're away, allowing you to explore your passion for travel at the same time.

International travel can be very expensive, so this gives you a leverage point for finding a more cost-effective way to enjoy time overseas. It's amazing what pet websites can do to bridge connections.

Are you ready to see the world and meet new fantastic pooches at the same time?

How to Find Gigs Abroad

There are a handful of websites that allow you to join with the membership and connect with other folks all the way across the map. You can sign up to be a pet or house sitter and browse the list of available gigs.

Here are a few dogsitting exchange websites and what they offer.

Trusted Housesitters

Trusted Housesittters is a popular online service that people traveling and people babysitting can both take advantage of. It is a way for people to connect through important screening and other details to promote security and safety for all involved.

When you are on the website, you can choose to find a sitter, or get one. It takes you through several different prompts where you add in all of your information and get into the database.

After following all necessary steps, you can be connected with potential opportunities for abroad stays.

Mind My House

Mind My House is another online matching service for pet sitters and folks traveling. They have provided services from around the globe since 2005. You can hop on the website to register. It is the same price to register for both house sitting and those who need the service.

You pay a monthly fee, and you have full unlimited access to all opportunities on the website.

Nomador

Nomador is exactly the same concept as the other two we've mentioned. You can hop on and check out success stories from real-life pet sitters who've had amazing experiences all over the globe. There are quite a few opportunities and you can really find the perfect fit.

If you're serious about house sitting, they'll certainly pair you up with the right people.

How to Appeal to Pet Owners

You might wonder how to stand out among the rest. Here are just a few tips on how to and get started.

Get References

References speak volumes! Especially when the people who are hiring you can't meet you until you arrive. Some will already be out on holiday and never meet you at all. Because of this impersonal way of communicating, it can be a bit scary for both parties to fully commit. Make sure you have a stack of references of real-life people that they can talk to in order to truly get a feel for your character. It's one way to bring them peace of mind so they know they aren't hiring a total quack to come to their house, or someone that's going to steal all of their things.

Add Employers/Landlords

Employers and landlords are very good references because they are professional. It's not your mom or your cousin telling a potential employer how fantastic you are. There are accounts of people who may be otherwise completely indifferent toward you explaining the character that they have seen displayed while they've known you.

Add Doggy Photos

Leave pictures of dogs on your profile! After all, you are trying to show a complete stranger how much you love dogs and what better way to do that than introduce them to the dogs you know and love?

Talk Yourself Up

Don't be afraid to market yourself! This part's really important, especially with the method of communication. Definitely give the person potential selling points and let them know how you would stand out among other pet sitters.

Use the Owner’s Dog’s Name During Communication

If you are in communication with an owner, remember to always mention their pet’s name. To them, their pets are like family and you addressing them and giving them their identity will show the owners that you are respectful and considerate of their animal.

It's a great way to personalize the experience!

Making the Choice

Making that final decision can be pretty difficult. After all, there's so many different things to consider before you pet sit internationally. If you're not a person who's traveled before, or you're just getting your toes wet, we want to help you make a decision.

Below are some tips for you to consider.

Ensure Your Safety

When you are traveling abroad, ensuring your safety is the very first step. You are going to be in situations where you have language barriers and other problems preventing you from effectively speaking with those around you.

You need to have a plan in place to make sure you are safe and secure your entire trip.

Know Your Client

Get to know your client very well before you go.

Learn if there are any regulars that stop by the house, family that lives nearby, or other folks that just might pop in while they're away. Learn about any neighbors or potentially important things to mention in a local sense.

Research the Area

Be aware of where you are at. Maps can only show us certain things, but it is a great idea to get a solid understanding of where you are on the map. Know local places to eat, shop, and otherwise accommodate yourself during your journey.

You might also want to know high crime areas and parts to stay away from on your travels.

Be Aware of Language Barriers

Language barriers can be complicated for anyone to manage, particularly if you're not bilingual. You can brush up on some native language skills before you go, or you can use technology on your side.

There are apps that can translate what someone else is saying to you and what you are saying to them. So, if you run into any issues, you can easily talk with the people in the area.

Make Your Family Aware

Let your family know everything that's going on. Even share your location with a few of your loved ones so they can know where you are at all times. If they think you're in trouble or if something happens, people you know can help you out. It would be an awful feeling to be stranded in a new country with no way to get a hold of your family.

International Dogsitting Isn’t for Everyone

When it comes right down to it, dogsitting won't be for everyone. It's one thing to do it in your own city and quite different to do so oceans away.

If you have completely decided on international dogsitting, make sure that you take some time to decide and thoroughly research before you commit to anything for sure. You might even want to take a dogsitting trip a little closer to home first before you make the big move.

Conclusion

Now you understand the ropes of international dogsitting. Does it sound like something you're interested in? If so, you can research helpful websites to sign up to find potential clients.

Remember that it might take you a little longer at first, but if you're patient enough, you can certainly find a family willing to hire you as long as you have the right criteria.

Featured Image Credit: gemphoto, Shutterstock