New Global Standards Aim to Protect Your Dog While You’re Away

Pet Sitters International Sets the Bar for Pet Care

Leaving your dog in someone else’s care can be stressful. Whether it’s for a long weekend getaway or just a few hours at work, how do you know your pup is safe, happy, and cared for? Recent announcements from the pet-care industry have introduced a game-changing answer: the first global standards for professional pet sitters and dog walkers are now in place. These standards define exactly what responsible, high-quality care should look like — and they’re designed to protect dogs like yours.

What Pet Parents Should Know About Professional Pet Care Updates

Pet sitting and dog walking are booming industries, but until now, they’ve been largely unregulated. That means there hasn’t been a clear, public definition of what “professional” pet care entails. These newly released standards set baseline expectations for everything from training and emergency preparedness to insurance, client communication, and daily care routines.

For dog owners, this is a major step forward. Instead of relying solely on online reviews or star ratings, you now have a clear benchmark to evaluate sitters and walkers. The standards cover:

• Education and certification: Professionals follow structured training and continuing education.
• Insurance and bonding: Emergencies are handled with accountability.
• Health and safety protocols: Dogs of all ages and conditions receive proper care.
• Transparent communication: Sitters provide written care plans, check-ins, and emergency access.

Local Las Vegas Sitters Already Setting the Bar

Here are just a couple Las Vegas–based pet-care providers who are already aligned with these standards, making it easier for pet parents to find reliable care:

• Little White Dog Co are licensed, insured, trained, bonded and background checked.
• I Love Your Pets Too maintains license, insurance, is bonded and trained.

Lessons from Past Incidents

The need for clear standards is evident. Just last month, a highly rated Rover sitter in Florida was permanently deactivated after a dog died in their care and was cremated without the owner’s knowledge. Stories like these show how important verified credentials, insurance, and consistent care protocols can be. Following recognized standards can help prevent tragedies, ensure accountability, and give pet parents confidence that their dogs are in safe hands.

How This Impacts You and Your Dog

Even if your sitter isn’t yet certified, these standards give you the language and expectations to ask informed questions. Look for:

• Proof of training and certifications
• Evidence of insurance and bonding
• Written emergency and care plans
• Trackable check-ins or updates

By choosing providers aligned with these standards, you’re not just hiring a dog walker or sitter — you’re selecting a professional committed to safety, trust, and quality care.

Bottom Line

Dog care is serious business. The release of these global standards represents a new era of professionalism for pet sitters and walkers — one that prioritizes your dog’s safety and well-being, supports caregivers, and gives you peace of mind. As pet parents, it’s now easier than ever to know your dog is in qualified, trustworthy hands.