[VIDEO: 4-minute guide to professional communication with clients]

As a pet sitter, you may need access to certain amenities during longer sits. Here's how to professionally request permission and maintain appropriate boundaries:

Before Your Booking:

Step 1: Discuss Expectations During Meet & Greet

• House Rules - Ask about any areas that are off-limits

• Available Amenities - Inquire about TV, WiFi, kitchen access

• Emergency Contacts - Get numbers for utilities, internet, neighbors

• Pet's Routine - Understand how amenities fit into their schedule

[SCREENSHOT: Sitter and client having discussion in living room]

Step 2: Clarify in Your Booking Messages

• Be Specific - "May I use the television during downtime?"

• Explain Your Needs - "I'll be here 12 hours and would appreciate kitchen access"

• Show Consideration - "I'm happy to follow any house rules you have"

• Confirm Boundaries - "Please let me know if any areas are off-limits"

During Your Pet Sitting:

Step 3: TV and Entertainment Access

• Ask Permission First - "Is it okay if I watch TV while Max naps?"

• Respect Their Settings - Don't change saved channels or preferences

• Keep Volume Appropriate - Consider the pets and neighbors

• Clean Up After - Return remote to its place, turn off when done

[SCREENSHOT: Sitter messaging client about TV permission]

Step 4: Kitchen and Food Access

• Bring Your Own Food - Don't assume you can use their groceries

• Ask About Basics - "May I use coffee, tea, or water from the fridge?"

• Offer to Replace - "I'm happy to buy more coffee if I use yours"

• Clean Thoroughly - Wash dishes immediately, wipe counters

Step 5: General House Etiquette

• Remove Shoes - Follow their household customs

• Use Bathroom Respectfully - Bring your own toiletries when possible

• Ask About Thermostat - "What temperature range is comfortable?"

• Respect Privacy - Don't enter bedrooms or private spaces unnecessarily

[SCREENSHOT: Sitter preparing simple meal in client's kitchen]

Professional Communication Tips:

What to Say:

• "Would it be alright if I..."

• "I want to be respectful of your space..."

• "Please let me know if you have any preferences about..."

• "I'm happy to follow whatever rules you have..."

What NOT to Say:

• "I assume it's okay if I..."

• "I need to use your..."

• "All sitters do this..."

• "You should have mentioned..."

Sample Messages:

For TV Access: "Hi! I'll be staying overnight with Buddy. Would it be okay if I watch TV during his quiet time? I'm happy to keep the volume low and respect any channel preferences you have."

For Kitchen Access: "Quick question - would it be alright if I make coffee in the morning and use the microwave for my lunch? I'll bring my own food and coffee, and of course I'll clean up after myself."

For Extended Stays: "For the 3-day booking, I wanted to check about house amenities. May I use the TV, kitchen for my meals, and is there anything specific you'd prefer I avoid? I always respect house rules and clean up after myself."

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Never assume anything is okay without asking

• Don't use personal items (clothing, toiletries, electronics)

• Avoid inviting friends or family over

• Don't rearrange furniture or decor

• Never post photos of the client's home on social media

Professional Boundaries:

• Overnight Stays - More amenities are typically expected

• Drop-in Visits - Usually just basic bathroom and water access

• Extended Bookings - Kitchen and entertainment access more reasonable

• Emergency Situations - Use good judgment and inform client

If Permission is Denied:

• Respect the Decision - Don't argue or push back

• Come Prepared - Bring entertainment and snacks

• Professional Response - "No problem at all, I'll come prepared"

• Don't Take it Personally - Some clients prefer strict boundaries

Building Trust:

• Follow Through - Always do what you say you'll do

• Exceed Expectations - Leave the space cleaner than you found it

• Communicate Updates - "Thanks for letting me use the kitchen - I restocked the coffee!"

• Respect Their Home - Treat it better than your own