Pet Care Services Agreement

1.1 Pet Safety Standards

• NEVER leave pets unattended in unsafe conditions
• Ensure secure containment (fences, leashes, crates)
• Follow all feeding, medication, and care instructions exactly
• Provide fresh water at all times
• Monitor pet behavior for signs of illness or distress
• Never allow pets off-leash in unfenced areas (unless owner authorized)
• Keep pets separated from aggressive or incompatible animals

1.2 Emergency Response

• Have owner's emergency contact information readily available
• Have veterinarian contact information and authorization
• Call emergency vet immediately for serious injury or illness
• Notify owner immediately of any incidents or health concerns
• Keep first aid supplies accessible
• Know pet's medical conditions and emergency protocols

1.3 Insurance & Licensing

• Maintain pet care liability insurance (strongly recommended)
• Comply with local pet care business licensing requirements
• Report all income from pet care services to tax authorities
• Maintain accurate records of services provided

1.4 Prohibited Conduct

• NEVER use physical punishment or abuse
• NEVER sedate pets without explicit veterinary authorization
• NEVER leave pets in hot vehicles
• NEVER provide unauthorized medication
• NEVER take pets to unapproved locations
• NEVER allow unauthorized persons to handle pets

2.1 Due Diligence

Pet owners MUST:

• Check at least THREE references from previous clients
• Conduct in-person interviews and meet-and-greets
• Verify provider's experience with your pet's breed/species
• Confirm provider has pet care liability insurance
• Start with short trial periods before long-term arrangements
• Consider background checks for in-home pet sitting

2.2 Required Disclosures

Pet owners MUST provide:

• Complete medical history and current health conditions
• All medications with dosage and schedule
• Veterinarian contact information
• Behavioral issues, triggers, or aggression history
• Emergency contact information (multiple contacts)
• Feeding instructions and dietary restrictions
• Authorization for emergency veterinary care (with spending limit)

2.3 Liability for Pet Behavior

3.1 Provider Insurance

Pet care providers SHOULD carry:

• Pet care liability insurance ($500K-$1M recommended)
• Coverage for injuries caused by client pets
• Coverage for pet injuries while in provider's care
• Auto insurance if transporting pets

Providers: Business Insurers of the Carolinas, Pet Sitters Associates

3.2 Owner Insurance

Pet owners SHOULD carry:

• Pet liability insurance or add-on to homeowner's/renter's insurance
• Coverage for injuries caused by their pet
• Verify coverage includes care provider scenarios

4.1 Provider Emergency Actions

• Contact emergency vet immediately for serious injury/illness
• Have owner's veterinary authorization and spending limit
• Document all incidents with photos and notes
• Notify owner immediately of any health concerns
• Keep pet poison control number handy: (888) 426-4435

4.2 Lost or Escaped Pets

• Immediately search the area and call the pet's name
• Notify owner immediately
• Contact local animal control and shelters
• Post on local lost pet groups and social media
• Check microchip registry if pet is microchipped