Finding a professional for your pet: trainer, pet care, groomer, insurance
Our guides help you choose and do it yourself. If you would rather hand your pet’s training, care or grooming to someone else, or compare insurance quotes, here is what to check before you commit, and a form to be put in touch with partner professionals.
Dog trainer or behaviourist
Rules differ by country. In France, anyone who boards, trains or educates dogs and cats commercially must register with the prefecture and employ at least one qualified person: a recognised professional certification, the ACACED certificate or the former certificat de capacité (article L214-6-1 of the French Rural and Maritime Fishing Code). The job titles themselves are not protected: ask which qualification the trainer holds.
- Which methods do you use, and what do you do if the dog does not progress?
- One-to-one or group sessions, at home or on a training ground? How long, and how many sessions?
- Do you have professional liability insurance?
- Can I watch a session before committing?
A sudden change in behaviour can have a medical cause: talk to your vet first.
Boarding or a pet sitter
In England, boarding cats or dogs as a business (kennels, catteries, home boarding and day care) requires a licence from the local council under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018; in France, commercial boarding of dogs and cats falls under the rules above. Wherever you are, ask to see the licence or registration. For a rabbit, a bird, a rodent, a reptile or fish, look for someone who knows the species.
- Can I visit the premises (or meet the sitter) before the stay?
- How many animals do you look after at once? What exercise and feeding?
- What happens in an emergency: which vet, and how will you reach me?
- Is there a written contract and professional liability insurance?
Groomer
Ask the groomer which training they have had and how long they have been working. In a salon or a mobile van, the price usually depends on size and coat: ask what is included.
- Which products do you use, and how do you handle a stressed animal?
- How long does a session take? Can I stay?
- What does the price include (bath, drying, cut, nails, ears)?
Pet health insurance
Planète Pets does not give insurance advice: our pet insurance guide explains the French market. Before signing, compare the annual limit, the excess, the reimbursement rate, waiting periods, exclusions and the maximum age at enrolment, and check that the insurer or broker is authorised in your country.
How the introduction works
You choose your need, then give the animal, your postcode, the timing and your contact details. If you tick the consent box, your request is passed on to three partner professionals at most, in the category you chose, who may contact you by phone or email. The request is free and without obligation; Planète Pets may be paid by these professionals. We do not promise a response time. You can withdraw your consent at any time by writing to admin@tech-bharat.com (details in our privacy policy, in French with an English summary).