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Neighbor News

Need a Pet Sitter for Thanksgiving? Book Now!

Local pet care expert share tips to ensure the family pet is well cared for over the upcoming holiday

Across the U.S., Thanksgiving is among the busiest travel times of the year. Local residents are no exception, traveling miles to share the holiday with family and friends.

For most, taking the family dog along isn’t an option, which is why this holiday is also one of the busiest for quality pet care providers. Last Thanksgiving, area boarding kennels were at capacity and most pet sitters were booked from dawn ‘til dusk -- and this year is projected to be the same.

“Demand for pet sitting, in particular, has exploded,” says Traci Simo of at-home pet care services provider Canine Company. “More pet parents are choosing in-home care so they don’t have to worry about exposure to illness or parasites, and because it’s less stressful for the pet.”

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Many like the added security of having a presence in the house – bringing in newspapers and turning lights on -- so it doesn’t look empty.

When choosing a pet sitter, stick with the professionals, says Simo, even if only for a few days. “While your neighbor or your neighbor’s kid may love animals, they probably aren’t trained to handle a health emergency. You want your pet cared for by someone who knows pet first aid and CPR. And also be sure the sitter you select has emergency back up in case he or she is unable to visit on schedule.”

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She recommends booking as early as possible, ideally as soon as travel plans are confirmed. “If you wait, you may not be able to find quality care – especially if you want personalized care that comes to your home.”

About Canine Company

Born of a family's love for dogs, Canine Company provides at-home services to keep pets healthy, safe and happy including the Invisible Fence® brand system, Manners® dog obedience training, and mobile grooming and pet sitting in select markets. The company is based in Wilton, Connecticut.

For more information on pet sitting and at-home pet care services, visit www.caninecompany.com or call 800-818-DOGS (3647).

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