HPS Contractor Training – Section 6: Safety & Emergency Procedures

Updated December 2025 – includes revised emergency procedures and schedule accountability 

Welcome to the Safety & Emergency Procedures section!
This section outlines essential practices to keep pets, clients, and sitters safe during every visit. You’ll learn how to prevent accidents, respond to emergencies, and properly document incidents to maintain HPS’s high standards of care.

🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will:

• Recognize common hazards and safety risks for pets and sitters
  
  

• Know how to respond to pet injuries, illness, or escapes
  
  

• Understand proper reporting procedures in TTP
  
  

• Maintain personal safety while on assignments
  
  

• Follow proactive measures to prevent accidents and incidents
  
  

🐾 Preventative Safety Practices

• Conduct a quick safety check when entering and leaving a client’s home (doors, gates, alarms, fencing).
  
  

• Inspect leashes, harnesses, toys, and equipment before each visit for wear or damage.
  
  

• Follow client instructions carefully, especially for pets with health, mobility, or behavioral concerns.
  
  

• Keep potentially hazardous items (medications, cleaning products, small objects, food/choking hazards) out of reach of pets.
  
  

• Always supervise pets according to their needs; never leave unsupervised unless pre-approved.
  
  

⚠️ Emergency Response Procedures

• If a pet is injured, ill, or escapes:
  
  

  • Contact HPS Management immediately via TTP.
    
    

  • Follow any instructions provided by HPS for the situation.
    
    

  • Ensure the pet receives prompt care, including veterinary attention if authorized.
    
    

• Document the incident clearly in TTP Report Cards:
  
  

  • Include time, location, pet name, actions taken, and any communications with HPS.
    
    

• Never make promises or assumptions about outcomes to the client — HPS will coordinate follow-up.
  
  

⚕️End-of-Life & Critical Medical Emergencies

Some pets may experience a sudden, severe medical crisis, including terminal decline or life-threatening events. These situations can occur at the client’s home or en route to veterinary care.

Sitter Role:

• Do not attempt to diagnose or determine outcomes.
  
  

• Contact HPS immediately and follow guidance.
  
  

• Administer only care that is explicitly authorized (medication, comfort measures, etc.).
  
  

• Keep yourself and pets safe.
  
  

If the pet is at risk of dying on-site:

• Remain calm and communicate clearly with HPS.
  
  

• Provide comfort within your training and ability.
  
  

• HPS will coordinate with the client and any veterinary services.
  
  

Why this matters:
Quick, calm action ensures the pet’s safety and dignity, supports client expectations, and protects you legally and professionally.

🚑 Sitter Emergency or Incapacitation

Emergencies don’t only involve pets — sitter safety matters too.

If you experience an injury, medical issue, or any situation where you are unable to complete a visit or safely leave the property:

• Contact HPS Management immediately via TTP or phone

• If you are unable to communicate verbally, remain in a safe location and keep your phone accessible

• Do not attempt to “push through” an injury

• HPS may monitor active Report Cards and visit status to ensure sitter and pet safety 

Why this matters:
HPS actively monitors visits in real time. If something appears abnormal (such as an unusually long active visit, shortened visits without notice, no acknowledgement within the app), management may step in to ensure everyone is safe. Prompt communication allows us to support you quickly and arrange backup if needed.

👤 Personal Safety & Situational Awareness

• Be aware of your surroundings during walks, playtime, or property visits.
  
  

• Avoid dangerous areas, aggressive animals, or unsafe environments.
  
  

• Use protective gear when appropriate: closed-toe shoes, gloves, leashes, harnesses, or muzzles.
  
  

• Trust your instincts — if a situation feels unsafe, pause and contact HPS before proceeding.
  
  

• Carry your phone on your person (not left in a bag or car) during all visits and walks
  
  

📸 Incident Documentation & Reporting

• Complete TTP Report Cards promptly after any unusual events, accidents, or observed health concerns.
  
  

• Include photos or videos only if safe and relevant for documentation.
  
  

• Highlight preventive actions taken and any outcomes to help HPS maintain accurate records and support clients and sitters.

⏱️ Active Visit Awareness & Accountability

Sitters are expected to remain aware of their active visits and scheduled services for the day.

• Always confirm your daily schedule in TTP before starting your first visit

• An active Report Card indicates an ongoing visit and may be monitored by HPS

• Forgetting or overlooking a scheduled visit creates risk for pets, clients, and fellow sitters 

If you believe you missed or may miss a visit: 

• Notify HPS immediately

• Do not wait until the scheduled time has passed 

Early communication allows HPS to arrange coverage smoothly and maintain client trust.

💡 Tips for Success

• Familiarize yourself with common emergency contacts: local vets, poison control, and client instructions.
  
  

• Review client profiles for safety notes or special instructions before each visit.
  
  

• Keep a charged phone accessible at all times during visits.
  
  

• Use TTP and Band to clarify uncertainties or request support — HPS is always available to guide you.
  
  

• Proactive attention to safety increases client confidence and reduces incidents.