When you are an owner looking for a sitter for your beloved four-legged friend, trust is essential. At Petbnb, we believe that a good introduction between owner, sitter and the pet is a crucial step for a successful pet sitting period. In this blog, we explain why a first meeting is important, what to expect from it, and how it benefits both the sitter and the pet.
What is an meet and greet?
An introductory meeting is a personal meeting between the owner and the sitter, where they get to know each other and discuss all the important details about caring for the pet. This helps to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that the sitter is a good fit for the pet. This introduction is always without obligation. Once you are sure that all is well, the booking can be completed through our platform. Payments are secure and easy through our system. Zodra de betaling door het baasje is gedaan, wordt de boeking als definitief bevestigd beschouwd. Zelfs bij last-minute boekingen is een kennismaking aan te raden!
Avoid having to end the pet sitting early because you find out too late that it is not a match or the pet is not comfortable!
The importance of a meet and greet
An introduction prior to the pet sitting period is a small investment that brings great benefits to both owner, sitter and pet. It lays the foundation for trust, ensures that the animal's well-being is paramount and prevents unnecessary stress. At Petbnb, we therefore encourage all owners and sitters to take this step for an enjoyable and worry-free pet sitting period.
By scheduling an introduction, you offer your pet the best chance for a comfortable and familiar pet sitting experience. Moreover, as a sitter, you avoid taking on a booking where you find out on the day itself that the pet is much busier than you thought or there is simply no click. For owners, it is very unpleasant to hear during their absence that the sitter is running into difficulties and the goal is to cancellations as much as possible.
The basis for trust and security
As an owner, you want to be sure that your pet is in safe hands and that the sitter is capable and reliable. An introductory meeting provides an opportunity to ask questions, see the sitter's environment and get a feel for the person who will be caring for your pet. This builds trust and makes both you and your pet feel comfortable.
Pet welfare
Each animal is unique; they have their own character, preferences and routines. An introduction helps the sitter get to know and prepare for these habits. For example, some dogs are shy and need more time to feel safe, while others are very social. The same is true for cats; some cats like to seek company, while others prefer to go their own way. By getting acquainted beforehand, the sitter can learn what your pet likes and how best to respond to its needs.
Avoiding stress in pets
A new environment or person can be stressful for a pet. Getting acquainted beforehand allows your pet to get used to the sitter without having to say goodbye to the owner right away. A friendly meeting, without the pressure of an immediate overnight stay or pet sitting, allows your pet to already know the new person and be more quickly at ease when it's actually time for the pet sitting period. This reduces stress and helps your pet adjust more quickly.
If the sitter has a pet of their own, it is also hugely important that there is an introduction between the owner's pet and the sitter's pet!
Correct expectations and clear communication
An introduction also provides an opportunity to make clear agreements and express expectations. As the owner, you can tell what you think is important and what care your pet needs, from daily routines to any medical attention. In turn, the sitter can state what they can offer and what experience they have with similar pets. Good communication from the beginning ensures that there are no misunderstandings during the pet sitting period. Also, during the introduction, the owner can indicate how often they like to receive (photo) updates. Some owners like to be constantly informed of their four-legged friend's adventures and for others this is less important. Discuss your preferences together!
A match between sitter and pet
Just like people, sometimes animals may or may not have a "click" with someone. During an introduction, you can see how your pet and the sitter react to each other. Perhaps your dog completely blossoms in the sitter's presence, or your cat immediately feels at ease. That first interaction can be significant and confirms to both the owner and the sitter that the match is right.
Tips for a successful meet and greet
To get the most out of an introduction, we offer some tips:
- Plan the introduction well in advance, allowing enough time to find another sitter if needed.
- Choose a relaxing environment. Both parties agree on a suitable date and location for the meeting, preferably in the home of the sitter or owner or at a neutral location.
- Get the pet sitter acquainted with the routine and favorite things of the pet. This can help put the animal at ease more quickly.
- Stay positive and calm. Animals sense moods, so a relaxed attitude also helps your pet feel at ease.
Important questions and topics
- Feeding times and quantities: When and how often should the pet be fed? Are there any special food preferences or intolerances?
- Medication: Does the pet need to take medication? If so, how and when should they be administered?
- Walks and playtime: How often and how long does the pet need to be walked? Are there specific play times or favorite toys?
- Behavior and socialization: How does the pet behave toward other animals and people? Are there behavioral traits the sitter should know about?
- Emergency contacts: Who should be contacted in case of an emergency? Is there a preferred veterinary clinic in the area?
English 
Nederlands