Accredition for Pet Sitters
As a professional pet sitter, one of the most valuable services you can offer your clients is peace of mind. While clients consider honesty important, they also want to know that their animal companions and homes are in caring, competent hands. Accreditation or certification is one way of demonstrating your competence and dedication to your profession.
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Programs
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Both the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International offer home study courses leading to certification. The courses cover every aspect of pet sitting, from caring for dogs, cats, fish and exotics to marketing and sound business practices.
The Association of Pet Sitting Excellence focuses on sound business practices in its certification program. The Pet Care Services Association offers accreditation for pet care facilities, including dog daycare programs, and has a home study course leading to certification as a pet care technician.
Cost
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As of 2010, prices ranged from $150 for a Pet Care Services Association member to become a certified pet care technician to $299 for Pet Sitters International members to earn certification.
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Benefits
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Certification can be a powerful marketing tool for pet sitters. "Certification acknowledges the pet sitter is a serious professional who has obtained a high level of expertise through personal study," the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters reports on its website. "Completion of the course of study and a passing score on the examination assure pet sitters and pet owners of a meaningful credential."
Renewal Required
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The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Pet Sitters International and the Association of Pet Sitting Excellence grant certification for three years.
Other Credentials
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Certifications in pet first aid and pet CPR are also useful for professional pet sitters. Hands-on courses are available at national pet sitting conventions and at regional training events.
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References
- National Association of Professional Pet Sitters: Online Certification Program
- Pet Sitters International: Accreditation--Certification Program for Pet Sitters
- Association of Pet Sitting Excellence: Certification Program
- Pet Care Services Association: Accreditation
- Pet Care Services Association: Education
Resources
- Photo Credit woman and dog image by Pierrette Guertin from Fotolia.com
