The Ultimate Guide to Bird Sitting: What To Look For

You're going out of town. Are you headed to the beach for a much-needed vacation? Or maybe to visit family for the holidays? Whatever the reason, there's one thing you need to figure out before you leave: who will take care of your pet bird?

Pet birds require special attention and care. For example, does the average sitter know that birds need 10-12 hours of sleep per night? What about dietary needs and potential hazards in the home? You can't just hire any pet sitter off the street, you need someone who is knowledgeable and experienced in bird care.

So, how do you find—and vet—someone to care for your feathered friend while you're away? This ultimate guide will walk you through exactly what to look for in a bird sitter.

How to Find a Sitter

Step one: you need to find candidates for the job. Where do you start?

1. Ask your avian veterinarian for recommendations: Your vet is likely well-connected in the bird community and may know of reputable sitters who specialize in bird care.
2. Reach out to local bird clubs or organizations: These groups often have members who offer pet sitting services or can refer you to trusted sitters.
3. Search online platforms specifically for pet sitters: Websites like Rover or Care.com have filters that allow you to search for sitters who have experience with birds.
4. Use word of mouth: Ask friends, family, and fellow bird owners if they have any recommendations for a reliable bird sitter.

What To Look For

Okay, you have a few potential sitters in mind. Now what? You vet them! Some qualifications to look for in a bird sitter include:

• Experience with birds: This may seem obvious, but it's important to make sure the sitter has specific experience caring for birds. Ask about their previous clients and the types of birds they have cared for.
• Knowledge of bird behavior: A good bird sitter should understand bird behavior and be able to recognize signs of distress or illness in your pet.
• Familiarity with different species: If you have a less common type of bird, make sure the sitter is familiar with that species' unique needs and behaviors.
• References: Ask for references from previous clients and follow up with them to get a sense of the sitter's reliability and quality of care.
• Training or certifications: Some sitters may have specific training or certifications in bird care, which can give you more confidence in their abilities.

What To Ask

During your initial conversations with potential sitters, be sure to ask these important questions:

1. Do you have experience caring for birds? If so, what species have you worked with?
2. Are you familiar with bird behavior and what signs should I look out for if my bird is not feeling well?
3. How do you handle emergencies or unexpected situations?
4. Do you have any references from previous clients that I can contact?
5. Do you have any certifications or training in bird care?
6. How often will you visit my bird and what tasks will you perform during each visit?
7. Are you willing to provide updates and pictures of my bird while I am away?
8. What measures do you take to ensure the safety and security of my home and bird while I am away?

This might seem like a big effort. But you don't want to entrust your bird's well-being to just anyone. With these tips and questions, you can find a reliable and knowledgeable bird sitter who will give your feathered friend the care they deserve while you're away.

Getting Your Bird Ready

Once you find a sitter, the next step is preparing your bird for when you're gone. The process for this will look different depending on whether you found an in-home sitter or if you'll be boarding your bird.

Preparing for an In-Home Sitter

To prepare your bird for an in-home sitter, start by creating a care routine that's easy to follow. Write down detailed instructions about your bird’s daily needs, including feeding schedules, preferred foods, and any special dietary requirements. Make sure to include information about cleaning their cage, changing water, and any specific handling preferences your bird may have.

It’s also a good idea to spend some time introducing your sitter to your bird before you leave. This helps your feathered friend get comfortable with a new person and makes the transition smoother. Have them come over a few times before your trip so they can get to know your bird and observe their behavior.

Lastly, leave contact information for your vet and a way for the sitter to reach you in case of any emergencies. Following these steps will help your bird stay comfortable and help the sitter feel more confident while you're away.

Preparing for Boarding

Preparing your bird for boarding can take a little planning, but it’s an important way to make sure they feel as comfortable as possible while you’re away. Start by gradually introducing your bird to the travel carrier they’ll be using, so it becomes a familiar and non-threatening space. You can place their favorite treats or toys inside to encourage positive associations.

Before boarding, it’s helpful to pack everything your bird will need, including a supply of their usual food, any medications, and some comfort items like a beloved toy or perch. You'll also want to provide detailed instructions to the boarding facility about your bird’s food preferences, routine, and any special requirements so they can continue to care for your bird as you would.

If possible, visit the boarding facility beforehand to get a sense of the environment and confirm it’s a safe and welcoming space. Spending a little time preparing in advance will help both you and your bird feel more at ease during their stay.

Whether you like it or not, there might come a time when you’ll need to leave your bird behind while you travel. But don’t stress! There are plenty of trustworthy bird sitters out there who can take great care of your feathered friend while you enjoy your trip. All it takes is a little effort to find the right sitter. Use this ultimate guide to what to look for in a bird sitter as a reference as you explore options near you.

If you're in the Santa Clarita area, All Things Birds offers pet sitting for birds. We’ve got a clean, safe, and spacious boarding area. With years of experience caring for everything from parakeets to cockatiels—and even large exotic birds—you can trust us to give your feathered friend all the love and care they need while you're away. When they're with us, they're family! Give us a call today to learn more or to book your bird’s stay.