How to Use a Meet & Greet to Find the Right Dog Walker or Pet Sitter in Nashville

So you’ve found a dog walker or pet sitting company you're considering for your pet -awesome! But before you move forward, there’s one essential step you shouldn't skip: the Meet & Greet (or as we call it at Prefurred Pets Nashville, your Onboarding Session).

This initial meeting plays a crucial role in making sure your pet will be well cared for while you’re away. It should be more than just a quick hello or a walk-through of where you keep the leash. It's your opportunity to ensure that the person you’re trusting with your pet, and your home, is the right fit.

Just because someone has a pretty website or polished Instagram doesn’t necessarily mean they’re qualified to care for your pet. This guide will help you show up to your Meet & Greet feeling prepared and confident.

What to Look for During the Meet & Greet

Start by introducing your pet to the potential caregiver. Watch how they interact—do they seem comfortable and engaged? Does your pet respond positively? This first impression matters more than you might think.

Important Questions to Ask

Come with questions that help you understand the person or company’s experience, protocols, and professionalism. Here are some key ones to consider:

• What experience do you (or your company) have caring for pets like mine?

• What is your policy on communication and updates while I’m away?

• How do you ensure my pet’s safety during your visits?

• What happens if you have an emergency and can’t complete a scheduled visit?

• Are you bonded and insured?

• What is your emergency protocol if something happens to my pet?

• What are your policies regarding cancellations, payments, obtaining keys, and scheduling?

• Will you be the only person caring for my pet, or are others involved?

• What are your typical visit times and durations?

• Do you conduct background checks on your staff, or can you provide one?

What to Share With Your Dog Walker or Pet Sitter

In addition to asking questions, you’ll want to provide the sitter with helpful information to make their job easier, and your pet’s experience smoother. Be sure to cover:

• Your pet’s routine, personality, and any behavioral quirks

• Feeding instructions, medication, or other care needs

• The location of supplies (food, leashes, litter, etc.)

• How to access your home and use the alarm system

• Anything else that helps your sitter feel confident and prepared

  
  

Before the visit ends, be sure you understand the next steps for booking services and what the process looks like moving forward.

Our Standard at Prefurred Pets Nashville

At Prefurred Pets Nashville, we require a Meet & Greet (what we call your Onboarding Session) before booking services. This meeting helps us get to know your pet, understand their unique needs, and make sure we’re the right match. It also gives you peace of mind that your sitter or walker is professional, reliable, and ready to provide exceptional care.

Ready to Meet Your Pet’s New Favorite Human?

We proudly serve busy pet parents across Nashville, TN with dog walking and pet sitting services built around trust, consistency, and communication.

If you're looking for dependable, loving pet care in Nashville, start by filling out our Get Started Form. We’ll be in touch to schedule your Onboarding Session and take the first step toward stress-free pet care you can feel great about.