Oh no! Got locked out while pet sitting? A Guide to Staying Calm and Getting Back In!

Okay, everyone, take a deep breath. Let's face it, we've all been there (or at least scared to be there): you're pet sitting, going outside to grab mail or take out the trash, and BAM! The door slammed shut. The key is inside. And Fluffy and Fido are staring at you through the window with a mixture of worry and judgment. Don't rush! This happens more often than you think.

First of all, assess the situation

Take a moment to assess the situation before you start hyperventilating and imagining yourself spending the night on the porch. Seriously, breathe.

• Check all doors and windows. It sounds obvious, but seriously double-check. Are there any windows that are unlocked? Backdoor? Glass sliding door? Even in the basement window? You will be surprised how people leave it unlocked. When I was in college, I accidentally locked myself out of my apartment, only to discover a conveniently unlocked ground-floor window around the back!
• Do you have a spare key? Did the house owner leave the spare key hidden somewhere? Under a flower pot? In a lockbox? Check your pet's care instructions or contact your homeowner or emergency contacts if possible.

Have you tried the obvious? It's time to act!

Now, even if I check everything, it remains locked out. Do not despair! The action plan is as follows:

1. Contact your homeowner or emergency contacts. This is the first and best option. Explain the situation calmly and clearly. Hopefully, there is a spare key nearby or they will guide you to it. If they are out of town, check if your neighbors have the keys or know the code for the garage door opener.
2. Contact a locksmith: If you can't reach someone to let you in, call a locksmith. Be prepared to provide evidence that you are allowed to stay at home (such as a pet sitting agreement). Locksmiths can usually put the door or key back without damaging it. Important: Make sure the locksmith has a license and insurance.
3. Worst case scenario: Contact the police/fire department. This is a *last resort*. Call emergency services only if you think your pet is in imminent danger (e.g., fire, medical emergency, extreme heat/cold).

Prevention is key (pun intended!).

The best way to deal with lockouts is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Consider the following preventive measures:

• Always carry your keys: Even if you're just going outside for a moment, keep your keys with you! This is the golden rule. Consider getting a lanyard, attach a key there and wear it around your neck all the time.
• Ask your homeowner about spare keys. Before they leave, ask the homeowner where the spare key is (if any).
• Consider smart locks. Some homeowners have smart locks that can be unlocked remotely. In these cases, make sure they understand how to use it before leaving.

Quick Reference Guide

Step	Action	Priority
1	Check all doors and windows.	High
2	Search for the spare key.	High
3	Contact your homeowner/emergency contact.	High
4	Call a locksmith.	Medium
5	Contact the police/fire department (emergency only).	Low (emergency only)

Understand the Cost

Be aware that in the event of a lockout that's the sitter's fault (like losing the key), the sitter will be responsible for the locksmith fees. If it's due to the client's failure to provide a key or a lock malfunction, the client will be responsible.

Stay calm and communicate

The most important thing is to be calm. Panic will only make the situation worse. Let homeowners know what's going on and what steps they're taking. Honesty and open communication are key to maintaining trust. Remember that accidents happen. What matters is how you treat them. And maybe, maybe, an interesting story will come out later.

Good luck and happy pet sitting!