Pet Sitters

About Pet Sitters

What do you do when you need to travel but you can't take your dog with you? Some owners prefer to leave their pet in the capable hands of a professional dog boarding kennel, where they feel secure that their dog will be safe and cared for until their return. However, this isn't always the best option for every pet.

For many reasons, some dogs just don't do well in a kennel setting. All the strange noises, smells, people, and other dogs can be a bit unnerving to older pets or pets with less outgoing personalities. Even though the kennel may be top notch, these pets can become a nervous wreck in this busy type of environment.

Pet sitters present a viable alternative to kennels because their services allow your pet to remain in the comfort of its own home where it feels most secure.

The pet sitter's job is to make scheduled visits to care for your dog throughout the day. By prior agreement, he/she may even stay with your pet at your home during your absence. While there, the sitter will see that your dog is fed, watered, and exercised, and generally make sure of your pet's well being. Most pet sitters will also make sure your pet receives some much needed affection in your absence.

Advantages of Using Professionals

While it may be possible to enlist friends, family, and neighbors to come to your home and check on your pet while you're away, it doesn't always work out as well as planned. Schedules and priorities can change in a flash, and well-meaning friends may not always be able to follow through on your pet's care as planned, leaving Fido in a lurch.

There are a some definite advantages to using professional pet sitters.

• Keeping your pet in its normal environment, and on a regular routine, will help lessen the stress caused by your absence.
• Your pet will be cared for by someone who is comfortable working with animals, not by someone who isn't necessarily a "pet person", but wants to help you out.
• Pet sitting agencies can provide a back-up caregiver if the original sitter is unavoidably delayed.
• You'll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is not only regularly checking on your pet but also checking on your home.
• Most sitters will gladly bring in your mail and newspaper if you haven't put these items on hold while you're gone.
• Regular activity around your home is more likely to keep potential burglars at bay.

Hiring a Pet Sitter

Whether you're hiring a sitter from an agency or a private pet sitter, you'll want to make sure that everything is in order before you leave your pet in their care.

Questions to ask include:

• What training and professional experience does the sitter have?
• Are there any other services provided beyond basic care?
• Will your sitter continue to give your pet any needed medications during your absence?
• Is the sitter flexible enough to deal with any other special needs your pet may have?
• In the event of an emergency, will your sitter take your dog to the vet? If so, will it be your regular vet or one the sitter/agency is contracted with?
• What is the back-up plan in the event your sitter is suddenly unable to come to your home after you're gone?
• How will you and the sitter communicate while you're gone and to make sure you have returned when expected?
• What happens if your return is delayed?
• How and when will your house keys be returned?
• Does the individual or agency carry proof of liability insurance to cover any accidents? (Don't hire anyone who doesn't!)
• Is the individual or agency bonded? This will protect you in the unlikely case of sitter-related theft.
• Can they provide references from previous customers?
• Most importantly, will the sitter provide a written contract stipulating the exact services to be rendered, the approximate schedule, and the fee(s) being charged?

Owner Obligations

Your sitter will need you to:

• Arrange a meeting time prior to your leaving so he/she can meet your pet.
• Provide accurate contact information for where you'll be, including your cell phone number.
• Provide a list of names and numbers to be used in the event of an emergency.
• Provide a schedule and the dosage of any medication(s) your pet is currently taking.
• Be sure to leave all of the things your dog needs in plain sight, including leashes, food, bowls, medication, bedding, toys, etc.

Finding Reputable Agencies

There may be pet sitters listed in your local phone directory; however, the following websites can also help you find reliable care givers for your pet.

• National Association of Professional Pet Sitters
• Pet Sitters International
• Pet-Sitter.biz