Pet Swap USA strongly recommends that members meet each other (without pets) in a mutually agreed publc place. If everything is OK two further meetings for the benefit of the pets - one at each other's home (if appropriate).

These intital meetings effectively provide an opportunity for you to judge a prospective sitter and determine their character and suitability for looking after your pet.

At the first meeting, both members should take with them some form of photo-id to confirm they are the person listed on the Pet Swap USA site.

You should not be afraid to ask questions to discover as much as reasonably possible about the potential Pet Sitter's background. Some people find writing down key points in advance means they don't forget the most crucial ones when they meet.

You might consider asking these and other questions:

• Have you ever looked after someone else's pet, and would you be happy to provide a reference?
• How would you fit my pet into your daily routine?
• How do you discipline a pet?

Take note of facial expressions or body language to help assess attitude and character.

You should consider the suitability of the Pet Sitter's home in terms of:

• Enclosure - Is it sufficiently secure to ensure your pet will remain safe?
• Feel - Does it have the feeling of a pleasant enviroment for your pet?
• Other pets - are they likely to make your pet's stay an enjoyabe one?
• Space - is there enough of it?

If any of your questions are not answered to complete satisfaction then you should politely make your excuses and walk away.