What to do when client's house is unlivable

Folks, let's be honest. We all dream of pet sitting in charming homes, surrounded by furry friends and maybe even a free bottle of wine. We think of cozy evenings, quiet walks, the sweet sounds of purring or playful barks. But sometimes... Sometimes, reality hits you like a large amount of bricks. Sometimes the house that was entrusted to you is... well, unlivable. I'm talking beyond the mess. I'm talking about situations that make you question your life choices. Have you ever walked into a client's home and immediately felt the need for protective clothing? Yes, me too. One time I walked into a house where the kitchen sink was literally growing... something. I still don't fully know what it was, but there is no doubt that it had its own ecosystem.

So what do you do if your dream job turns into a nightmarish scenario? Don't panic! (Easier said than done, I know.) But trust me, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and the pet you care for. First, document everything. Take photos and videos of the problem area. This is not about being vindictive. It's about protecting yourself legally and ethically. Clearly record the condition of the house upon arrival. Think of it as a "bag of evidence" for future discussions.

Next, objectively assess the situation. Is it simply messy, or is it really unsanitary and unsafe? Consider the following factors:

• Hygiene: Are there excessive odors, pest infestations, or unsanitary conditions (such as overflowing garbage or mold)?
• Safety: Are there any exposed wires, structural hazards, or anything that could pose a hazard to you or the pet?
• Cleanliness: Is it so messy that you can't take care of your animals properly? Think about access to food, water, and clean toilets.

Now, the hard part is communication. Contact the client immediately. Explain the situation calmly and professionally. Avoid accusations and focus on the facts. For example, instead of saying "Your house is disgusting!", try something like "I noticed an unsanitary situation that was making it difficult to provide the best possible care for Fluffy Fido, and I wanted to discuss how we could deal with this." It may be uncomfortable, but honesty is paramount. Transparency builds trust (or at least minimizes future misunderstandings). Their reactions can range from understanding to outright denial, so be prepared for any scenario.

Scenario	Possible client response	Your actions
Unsanitary conditions	"Oh, I'm really sorry! I had a crazy week. Is there anything you can do to clean up a little?"	Explain that you are not a cleaning service, but if they authorize (and compensate) you for extra cleaning time, you are willing to do what is necessary for the pet's well-being. Document everything, and set clear boundaries.
Hazardous conditions (e.g., exposed wires)	"Really? I didn't even notice. Try to keep the pets away from it."	This is a red flag. Express serious safety concerns. In good conscience, state that you cannot continue your duties under these circumstances. Offer to help find alternative care for your pet.
Completely deny/refuse to admit the problem	"You're too dramatic. There is no problem at all!"	Politely but firmly state that you cannot continue your assignment due to the situation at home. Prioritize your pet's safety and your well-being. Contact the pet sitting platform (if applicable) and explain your situation.

If the client is unwilling to deal with the problem, or if the situation poses an imminent threat to your safety or the health of the pet, you may need to remove yourself (and, if necessary, the pet) from the situation. This is where having a contract comes in handy. Check the contract for clauses for early termination or contingencies. If you don't have a contract, learn from this experience and create a contract for future gigs. I speak from experience: not having clear agreements can lead to massive headaches.

In extreme cases, it may be necessary to contact animal control facilities or authorities. This is a last resort, but if you suspect neglect or abuse, it is your ethical responsibility to act. Always prioritize the welfare of the animals, even if you end up making difficult decisions. Pet sitting can be incredibly rewarding, but it's also important to set boundaries and protect yourself. Remember, you're not just taking care of the pet. You will also enter someone's personal space. Respect, communication, and clear expectations are key to a successful pet sitting experience. And always trust your intuition – if something feels off, it probably is.