Pet Sitter Code of Ethics
Does your pet sitter have a code of ethics? I do - read more about about my principles here.
Being a pet sitter is a job of responsibility. I am looking after loved ones who aren't able to talk to their owners and express how they feel. Also, it is a big thing giving someone else a key to your home, especially if you haven't met them before. Hopefully, my testimonials and reviews help support this blog.
This blog is to put your mind at ease. Yes, I am a pet sitter with my own code of ethics. It may seem like a strange concept but in my previous career working in accounts, there was a strict code behaviour code set out by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).
I have been told I have a strong sense of right and wrong. I am pleased to say that so far, my children are the same. They make me get a parking ticket even if I am just going to dash in and out of a shop. I hope these beliefs stay with them as they grow up.
AAT Fundamental Principles
The AAT stated that all members must follow and uphold the following fundamental principles:
- Integrity
You must be straightforward and honest in all professional and business relationships. - Objectivity
You must not compromise professional or business judgement because of bias, conflict of interest or the undue influence of others. - Professional competence and due care
You must maintain professional knowledge and skill (in practice, legislation and techniques) to ensure that a client or employer receives competent professional service. - Confidentiality
You must not disclose confidential professional or business information or use it to your personal advantage, unless you have explicit permission to disclose it, or a legal or professional right or duty to disclose it. - Professional behaviour
You must comply with relevant laws and regulations, and avoid any action that may bring disrepute to the profession.
Livi's Code of Ethics for Wirral Whiskers
- Integrity
I am straight forward and honest. My priority is your pet. I am also concerned with keeping the pet owner happy by the way of communication and sending photos. - Objectivity
The pet and its well being will always come first. My beliefs on animal welfare and well being can be found in a previous article here. Being a pet owner myself, I wouldn't want my pet to suffer or have stressful unnecessary trips to the vet. - Professional competence and due care
I take pride in providing a reliable, knowledgable and qualified service and will only accept work that I am am capable of doing. The outline of the work will be discussed initially via telephone or message and then in more detail at the free meet and greet. If I am unsure, I will bring it to your attention. - Confidentiality
All personal data is retained within the GDPR regulations. Basically, all information is kept private. When I take photos, I do my best to take the pet and not surroundings. Any pet photos are only posted with permission without identifying data such as address or owners name. (Pets name may be used.) - Professional behaviour
I will do my utmost to care for your pet in the best way possible to your specification. I will treat your house with respect - taking shoes off when I go in, only going into necessary rooms and only touching what is required to do my job.
Upholding my Code of Ethics
I take pride in providing a professional, confidential service. It is important for me to get things right for your pet so I take down as much information that I can at the initial meeting. Owners are welcome to contact me at anytime with extra instructions or if they have any questions.
As well as your pet, I will be respectful of your home. I really only go in the areas where necessary and bring everything I need so don't need to look. I also bring my own dish cloths, tea towels, bin bags etc. On the odd occasion I have been known to take my hoover to clear up after a moulting pet. I want the pet owners to come back to their house in a nice state with happy pets.
If you would like to know more, or think there is something I should include with this, please let me know.
Best wishes, Livi
Any questions or if you have got further tips, please get in touch.
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