HPS Contractor Training – Section 4: Pet Care Best Practices

Welcome to the Pet Care Best Practices section!
This section covers daily pet care, observation techniques, and reporting practices to help you provide safe, professional, and thoughtful care that exceeds client expectations. Every detail matters — clients trust us to notice what they might miss, anticipate pet needs, and respond thoughtfully.

🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will:

• Understand proper feeding, hydration, and medication procedures
  
  

• Recognize and document behavioral, emotional, and health changes in pets
  
  

• Provide enrichment and exercise tailored to each pet’s personality and needs
  
  

• Use TTP Report Cards to accurately reflect visits and communicate with clients
  
  

• Maintain professionalism and follow safety standards during all visits
  
  

• Appreciate the importance of attention to detail and proactive care
  
  

🐾 Feeding & Hydration

• Follow client instructions precisely for food type, portion, and timing. Mistakes in diet can affect health or upset routines.
  
  

• Refill and clean water bowls every visit; pets notice and clients appreciate consistent care.
  
  

• Record any changes in appetite, refusal to eat, or unusual eating habits — even subtle shifts matter.
  
  

• Observe feeding behaviors to spot potential issues: food guarding, chewing difficulties, or digestive problems. Document in the Report Card if relevant.
  
  

🏃 Exercise & Enrichment

• Follow exercise schedules provided by clients (walks, playtime, outdoor access). Adjust intensity for age, health, and breed.
  
  

• Provide interactive play and mental stimulation: toys, games, scent enrichment, or training cues.
  
  

• Observe energy levels, mood, and engagement — note if pets are unusually lethargic, anxious, or hyperactive.
  
  

• Record enjoyable and positive experiences: what excited them, what made them happy — this helps clients feel connected.
  
  

💊 Medications & Special Care

• Administer medications exactly as instructed (timing, dosage, and method).
  
  

• Confirm each dose in the TTP Report Card immediately.
  
  

• Watch for side effects or reactions and report promptly. Even minor concerns can prevent bigger issues.
  
  

• Follow special care instructions closely: mobility support, dietary restrictions, grooming routines, or behavioral needs.
  
  

🩺 Behavior & Health Monitoring

• Focus primarily on positive behaviors, unique quirks, and endearing habits that show pets’ personalities. This helps clients feel present with their pets even when away.
  
  

• Record negative or concerning behaviors only when necessary — e.g., indoor elimination habits, destructive chewing, escape attempts, or aggression. These help HPS track and intervene appropriately.
  
  

• Observe subtle signals: changes in appetite, coat condition, energy, posture, mood, and social interactions. Even minor details can indicate health or emotional changes.
  
  

• Maintain consistency: clients rely on detailed, accurate records for the safety, health, and happiness of their pets.
  
  

📸 Documentation & Reporting

• Complete TTP Report Cards for every visit with notes, photos, videos, and observations.
  
  

• Highlight positive behaviors, progress, or fun moments first; include negative behaviors only when necessary for clarity or safety.
  
  

• Reference client instructions, profile details, and any uploaded documents (print-outs, emails, care guides).
  
  

• Accurate, thorough reporting is a key part of your professionalism and protects both you and HPS.
  
  

💡 Tips for Success

• Check client profiles for updates, special instructions, or documents before each visit.
  
  

• Use Band App or contact HPS admin in TTP if you have questions or need guidance — support is always available.
  
  

• Be proactive: notice small details that make pets comfortable or alert you to potential problems.
  
  

• Treat every pet as if they were your own: consistency, empathy, and attentiveness are what make HPS a premium pet care service.
  
  

• Safety first: always use leashes, harnesses, and protective gear appropriate to the pet and activity.