How Pet Sitters Get Client Reviews That Keep Bookings Full

Pet owners don’t just want a pet sitter. They want someone they trust completely with a member of their family. The barrier to a first booking is almost entirely emotional: “Can I trust this person alone in my home with my dog?”

Client testimonials from other pet parents are the most direct answer to that question.

Why Pet Sitting Testimonials Are Different

Your clients can’t come with you to evaluate your work. They hand over their keys and their pets and wait. That makes trust the entire transaction — and testimonials are the evidence of that trust being honored.

The most compelling pet sitting testimonials aren’t “good walker, dog liked her.” They’re “I was so anxious leaving Biscuit for the first time. I got photos at every walk, she noticed he was limping on day two and texted me immediately. I’ve never felt so at ease leaving my dog.”

That’s the peace-of-mind story that converts new clients.

When to Ask

After a first successful stay or series — the client has experienced your care, their pet is happy, they’re relieved and grateful.

After you go above and beyond — you noticed something off with the pet, you sent extra photos, you handled an unexpected situation.

At the end of a regular weekly engagement — “We’ve been working together for 3 months now — would you be willing to share your experience?”

When a client refers someone — they’re already evangelizing. Get it in writing.

Scripts for Pet Sitters

Post-stay text:

“So glad [pet name] had a great time! 🐾 If you have 2 minutes, would you be willing to leave a quick review or testimonial? Especially anything you can say about peace of mind when you’re away — that’s what new pet parents most want to hear. [link]”

Follow-up email (regular clients):

Subject: Quick favor from a happy client?

Hi [Name],

We’ve been caring for [pet name] for a while now and I just want to say — it’s always a joy!

I’m growing my business and testimonials from trusted clients like you make such a difference. If you’re happy with how we care for [pet name], I’d love a short note about your experience — especially anything about trust, communication, or how [pet name] does. [link]

Thank you! [Your name]

What a Great Pet Sitting Testimonial Looks Like

Weak: “Good pet sitter. Dog likes her. Will book again.”

Strong: “I’ve tried three different pet sitters and always came home to a stressed dog and zero communication. With [sitter], I get photos twice a day, a note if anything seems off, and [dog] is calm and happy when I return. Last month she noticed he’d been limping and messaged me before I even landed. She cares about animals the way you’d hope for — not just going through the motions. She’s the only person I’ll leave him with.”

Comparison to alternatives + specific details + proof of genuine care = premium bookings.

Pet Photos as Testimonial Amplifiers

Encourage clients to include a photo of their pet with their testimonial (with their permission). Pet faces on testimonials get clicked, shared, and remembered far more than text alone.

Where to Display Pet Sitting Testimonials

Website booking page — right next to the “book a visit” button
Google Business Profile — local “dog walker near me” searches
Rover or Wag profile — platform reviews drive bookings on apps
Nextdoor — neighborhood platform, huge for pet services
Facebook business page — pet owners share recommendations in community groups

Collect Testimonials With Proof

Proof makes it simple — one link, your clients share their experience, it shows on your site. Free forever for 1 active widget.