What to Look for in a Pet Carer: 5 Essentials Every Owner Should Know
29th May 2025
Choosing someone to care for your beloved pet isn’t just about finding someone who loves animals—it’s about entrusting them with the safety, wellbeing, and happiness of a cherished family member. Whether you need dog walking, home visits, or boarding services, here are five essential things to look for when choosing a professional pet carer.
1. Insurance – Peace of Mind Matters
Did you know it’s not a legal requirement in the UK for dog walkers or pet carers to have insurance? That means anyone can offer pet care services without any safety net in place if something goes wrong.
At Petpals, we believe your pet deserves better. That’s why every single one of our franchisees is fully insured, giving you the reassurance that your pet, home, and the public are protected in the event of an accident or emergency. Don’t be afraid to ask a pet carer to show you proof of insurance—it’s a perfectly reasonable request.
2. Dog Boarding Licence – A Legal Requirement, Not a Bonus
If you’re using home boarding services, it is a legal requirement that the carer holds a valid dog boarding licence issued by their local council. This licence confirms that the home meets welfare standards set out in the Animal Welfare Act, covering everything from hygiene to exercise provision.
Some unlicensed individuals still offer boarding services—this is illegal and could put your pet at risk. At Petpals, we ensure that all our licensed home boarders meet the strict standards required by law. Always ask to see the licence. If someone hesitates or can’t produce it, walk away.
3. Training – Not Required, But Absolutely Essential
Surprisingly, there’s no formal training required to be a dog walker, cat sitter, or dog boarder in the UK. But at Petpals, we take professional development seriously. That’s why all our franchises and their staff undergo thorough training in pet care best practice.
Our teams are also trained in:
- Pet first aid – knowing what to do in case of emergencies.
- Lost dog procedures – every carer follows a clear policy if a dog were ever to go missing.
- Understanding animal behaviour – helping them care for your pet’s emotional and physical needs.
This dedication ensures your pet is not just walked or fed, but truly cared for.
4. DBS Checks – Trust Begins at the Doorstep
If someone is entering your home and caring for your pet, a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is non-negotiable. It offers an extra layer of protection and peace of mind, showing that the person has no relevant criminal record.
At Petpals, all of our franchisees and staff are DBS-checked. It’s just another way we ensure you can feel completely at ease with the person looking after your home and your pet.
5. Public Responsibility – Safety First, Always
A professional pet carer should always prioritise the safety of your pet, the public, and other animals. That includes:
- Limiting the number of dogs walked, in line with best practice and local guidelines.
- Keeping dogs on leads near wildlife, horses, and farm animals.
- Following strict procedures to prevent any incidents while out in public.
The importance of responsible walking was tragically highlighted in a recent legal case where a negligent dog walker was held liable for life-changing injuries to a horse rider after failing to control a dog around horses (Horse & Hound article).
At Petpals, we enforce strong policies to prevent such incidents. Our team understands the importance of control, awareness, and acting responsibly at all times.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a pet carer, you’re placing a huge amount of trust in someone. Don’t settle for less than complete professionalism, care, and accountability. By asking the right questions and understanding what to look for, you can make a confident choice that keeps your pet safe and happy.
At Petpals, we’re proud to set the standard in pet care. Every team member is trained, licensed, insured, DBS-checked, and utterly dedicated to your pet’s wellbeing.
Your pet deserves the best – and so do you.
