Job Sharing

Responsible pet care means providing quality care to all clients and pets in the custody of the professional. ACPSN, as a professional organization, must direct members in the decision making process with regards to job sharing.

Job sharing refers to the provision of services by a member when other personnel are present during the duration of the services. Such personnel may include

• other pet care professionals with whom the client has contracted service
• other service providers with whom the client has contracted service (e.g. housekeeping services, assisted living providers, etc.)
• family members who do not reside on the premises
• friends, neighbours or employees of the client

In consideration of the service standards, ACPSN has sought guidance from practicing professionals, our regional representatives, and prior communications from professionals and pet parents regarding the potential for liability, the safety and well being of the animal and concerns for personal safety. It is not the intent of ACPSN to direct the business practices of members with this supplemental policy, but rather to promote an informed decision making process for members in developing business policies and service contracts.

Policy:

A Member of the All Canadian Pet Services Network will not advocate or participate in “job sharing” where the provision of services will be subject to interference by other personnel.
During the provision of services, the member will not communicate any information regarding the service provided to any person who is not the client, the designated emergency contact person, or a veterinarian responsible for the animal.

During the provision of services, the member will not accept directives or instructions by any person who is not the client, the designated emergency contact person, or a veterinarian responsible for the animal. Instructions or directives that are in contradiction to the service agreement must be provided by the client and not by any third party.

Exceptions:

Where the client has specifically contracted the services of another professional or party, and the member has, at their discretion, accepted this arrangement, the member will require the client to provide a waiver of liability for all actions taken by third parties during the contract term. The member is advised to notify the All Canadian Pet Services Network and their professional liability insurer of the arrangements and abide by the directives of ACPSN and the insurer.

Where the member engages in a job sharing contract with another pet sitter, the member shall ensure that the alternate pet sitter carries pet sitting liability insurance.