People often think that being a pet sitter is a stress-free job compared to a 9-5 office job or covering a shift in a restaurant. However, just like any other job, it has its ups and downs. In this post, we’ll discuss some self-care tips for pet sitters and dog walkers.
It’s crucial for pet sitters and dog walkers that they practice the art of caring for themselves.
Self-care encourages our brain to produce happy hormones that can uplift our mood and motivate us. As dog pick up on our feelings and emotions, practicing self-care is also beneficial for our beloved pets. If we are calm- it is likely our pet will be calm too!
Here are some tips for practicing self care:
Create a Schedule Catered to YOUR Needs
Avoid burnouts by choosing your working hours, payment terms, booking and cancellation policies to match your lifestyle. Think of YOUR needs first and set guidelines for yourself and others to follow.
Know Your Expertise and Limitations
Know when to say no. Declining a booking can sometimes be a little difficult, especially when the floofy pet is just so adorable. As much as you want to take another pet in your care, consider your expertise, limitations and other commitments. Can you take care of another pet? Can your schedule permit you to walk two or more dogs? Can you meet all their needs?
Join a Community
Consider joining a community group in your area, whether in person or on Facebook, where you can share your sentiments, as well as receive guidance and help when you need it. Floofers also offers a premium support team to all its pet sitters and dog walkers to make sure there is help and support when needed.
Focus on Your Health
It wouldn’t be called self-care if you dismiss your health, may it be physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Sometimes, you can be so drawn to the cuteness and fluffiness of pets and in consequence become overwhelmed by the actual severity of the job. Make sure you follow your set policies and procedures, take breaks, and vacation now and then. So, instead of patting yourself on the back, do what will make you breathe out the pressure and breathe in pleasure and tranquility.
The above self-care tips for pet sitters are not about selfishness; rather, they are about giving. You can only be good enough to others if you feel good about yourself, and you can only be of service to people and pets if you are healthy enough to give it.
Sign up today and join our ever-growing family of pet owners and vetted pet carers! Because our Floofy friends deserve nothing less than the best pet care.
