How to Earn 5-Star Reviews as a Pet Sitter

5-star reviews don’t happen by accident.

They come from consistency, communication, and professionalism — especially on walks, drop-ins, boarding, and house sitting.

If you want repeat clients and higher booking volume, this is how you earn it.

1. Review the House Profile Before Every Visit

The fastest way to lose stars is to show up unprepared.

• Review entry instructions
• Know where supplies are located
• Understand house rules
• Confirm emergency contacts

Clients notice when you don’t have to ask basic questions.

2. Start Services at the Correct Time

For walks, start the timer as you leave the house.

Complete the full booked duration:

• 30 minutes means 30 minutes
• 45 minutes means 45 minutes
• 60 minutes means 60 minutes

Accuracy builds trust.

3. Use Real-Time Tracking & Log Events

Detailed tracking separates professional sitters from casual ones.

• Keep your screen on for accurate GPS tracking
• Log water breaks
• Log pee breaks
• Log poop breaks

These small actions give clients visibility and confidence.

4. Take Great Photos (Up to 6 Per Walk)

Photos are one of the biggest drivers of 5-star reviews.

• Clear, bright images
• Smiling or engaged pet
• Walking photo
• Safe return home photo

Blurry or rushed photos reduce perceived quality.

5. Communicate Proactively

Respond if a client messages you.

Even better: provide brief updates without being asked.

Example:

“We’re halfway through the walk — doing great!”

Clear communication prevents 4-star “good but…” reviews.

6. Leave the Home Exactly as You Found It

• Lock all doors
• Return supplies to original location
• Secure pets properly
• Clean up any mess

The best compliment is when clients say, “It’s like you were never there.”

7. Be Honest About Fit

Not every booking is right for every sitter.

If:

• The pet is highly reactive
• The home setup makes you uncomfortable
• The responsibilities exceed the booking type

Clarify before accepting.

Accepting a bad-fit booking often leads to lower ratings.

8. Ask for the Review (Professionally)

After a successful booking, it’s okay to say:

“If you’re happy with the visit, I’d really appreciate a review.”

Many clients simply forget.

9. Handle Issues Calmly

If something goes wrong:

• Communicate immediately
• Stick to facts
• Offer solutions

Professional handling of small issues often earns stronger reviews than perfect visits.

Common Reasons Sitters Lose a Star

• Ending the walk early
• Not logging potty breaks
• Not responding to messages
• Forgetting to lock doors
• Minimal photo updates

What 5-Star Clients Notice

• Consistency
• Attention to detail
• Clear updates
• Professional tone
• Reliable timing

Final Thoughts

5-star reviews are earned through systems, not luck.

Review the House Profile. Track accurately. Log events. Take great photos. Communicate clearly. Lock up securely.

Do this consistently, and 5-star reviews follow.