There are a few documents that you should see from everyone you interview.  These are standard to all types of businesses, not just Pet Sitters.  Be sure to check dates on all forms to be sure that none are expired, and call the issuer if you are not sure:

Online Reviews are often fake-  the first thing any new business does is have their friends and family post reviews for them on Google, Yelp, Yahoo and other sites like that.  Some make up fake ones themselves, all you need is an email address.  It's dishonest, but probably the most common practice in small business.  Yes, we have some really nice ones, and appreciate them, but we would advise taking them with a grain of salt. 

If your pet is to be transported, there should be an additional rider on the service's insurance policy to specifically cover transportation of animals.  Make sure that the vehicle is equipped to carry your pets safely in approved carriers that are securely fastened to the vehicle, and that transportation time is not counted into service time unless specified as such in the contract. 

Grooming of any sort also requires specific insurance, or a grooming rider on a general policy.

Vehicle Graphics or Magnets on a Pet Sitter's vehicle are a bad idea- would you pay someone to put a "No one is home" sign on your house while you're gone?  Don't hire a service that drives around with one of these on their vehicle, it's an ad for trouble.

Questions?  DenverPetSitters@hotmail.com

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Pet Sitters:  Considering closing your service?  We may buy it (no franchises!!). 
Please email us  DenverPetSitters@hotmail.com.