Questions to Ask Care Providers
The essential questions that help you evaluate any pet care provider.
Before You Book — Essential Questions
Whether you are considering a boarding facility, an in-home sitter, or a daycare, asking the right questions helps you evaluate whether the provider is a good fit. A reputable provider will welcome your questions — if they seem annoyed or evasive, that is a red flag.
Experience and Qualifications
- What experience do you have with my type of pet (breed, species, age)?
- Do you hold any qualifications (Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Certificate III in Animal Studies, Pet First Aid)?
- How long have you been providing pet care?
- Do you have references or reviews I can check?
Care and Supervision
- How many pets do you look after at one time?
- How much one-on-one time will my pet get each day?
- What does a typical day look like for a pet in your care?
- How do you handle feeding, including special diets or medications?
- Where will my pet sleep?
Safety and Emergencies
- What happens if my pet becomes ill or injured while in your care?
- Do you have a relationship with a local vet clinic?
- Are you insured? (Public liability insurance is important.)
- How is your property secured? Are fences and gates pet-proof?
Communication
- Will you send me updates and photos during my pet’s stay?
- How can I contact you in an emergency?
- What is your cancellation policy?
Always ask if the provider has public liability insurance. Accidents can happen even with the best care, and you want to know that the provider is covered. Professional platforms like Lapdog require providers to hold appropriate insurance and qualifications.
Questions Specific to Boarding Facilities
If you are considering a boarding kennel, cattery, or daycare facility, also ask:
- Can I tour the facility before booking?
- What is the staff-to-animal ratio?
- How are the animals grouped (by size, temperament, play style)?
- Are rest periods enforced during the day?
- What vaccination requirements do you have?
- How do you handle dogs that do not get along?
- Is there 24-hour supervision or are the animals left overnight?
- What cleaning and hygiene protocols do you follow?
A reputable facility will encourage you to visit before booking. If they refuse a tour, look elsewhere.
Provider Questions Quiz
A pet sitting provider seems annoyed when you ask about their insurance and emergency procedures. What should you do?