Pet Sitter Background Checks: What You Need to Know
Background checks catch serious red flags. Here's what they cover, what they miss, and how to get one.
Find Reviewed Pet Sitters Near Me78%
of pet owners want sitters background-checked
$15–50
typical background check cost
Criminal
history is the main check
Not required
by most states for pet sitters
What a Background Check for Pet Sitters Covers
- Criminal history search at county, state, and federal levels
- Sex offender registry check — especially important for in-home sitters
- Identity verification — confirms the person is who they say they are
- Some include driving record — relevant if the sitter transports your pet
- They do NOT reveal: personal financial issues, past employer complaints, or social media history
Which Platforms Require Background Checks
- Rover: background checks available, not required for all sitters — check the sitter's specific badge
- Care.com: available for an additional fee
- Wag: conducts background checks before activation
- Independent sitters: your responsibility to request — or use a third-party service
- Afinderly: independent sitters self-list; always ask directly about their background check status
How to Request a Background Check from an Independent Sitter
- Ask directly: "Do you have a current background check on file?"
- If they don't, offer to pay for one — many reputable sitters will agree
- Use services like Checkr, Sterling, or your local police department
- Some sitters proactively provide background check certificates to every new client
- A refusal without explanation is a red flag, not necessarily disqualifying — ask why
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a background check mandatory for pet sitters?
No. Most US states have no licensing or background check requirements for pet sitters. It is an optional vetting tool you must request.
How much does a pet sitter background check cost?
Consumer-accessible services like Checkr run $15–50 depending on the depth of search. Some platforms include them in their service fees.
What should I do if a sitter refuses a background check?
Ask why. Some independent sitters have privacy concerns about submitting to third-party services. If the refusal is accompanied by other red flags (vague emergency plan, no references), consider it a warning sign.
Are background checks 100% reliable?
No. Background checks catch documented criminal history but miss many things: unreported incidents, complaints that didn't lead to charges, and behavior that's never been on record. They're one tool, not a guarantee.
