Choosing a Pet Sitter

Planning a vacation can be stressful, especially when pets are involved. If you are unable to bring them with you, you need to have someone you trust look in on them. If you do not have a relative or neighbor who can care for them, here are some tips on finding a pet sitter:

Start by asking your family, friends and neighbors which pet sitting service they use and if they are happy with it. You might also call your pet’s veterinarian or a local animal shelter; both of these may be willing to recommend a pet sitter.

Some pet sitters do pet sitting as a side job and their “day job” is veterinary technician, so animal hospitals may also provide some good pet sitting references.

Once you’ve found one or two that look good, invite them to your home for an interview. This way you can ask them about their services and they can meet your pet(s), and you can get a sense of how they interact with them, which is, after all, the most important thing. Don’t be afraid to ask them for references, too.

You should ask any potential pet sitters if they are bonded and insured. (More info on that here: http://petsits.com/petsittinginsuranceusa.htm

Another avenue to consider when searching for a pet sitter is the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (or NAPPS). You can search for a pet sitter on their website: http://http://www.petsitters.org/

Before you leave, provide your pet sitter with all pertinent phone numbers, such as the number for your veterinarian, where you can be reached, the nearest 24/7 animal hospital, and a friend or neighbor in case of an emergency. Make sure your pet sitter is aware of any medications that must be administered, proper amounts of food/treats, special commands or training, best areas to walk the pet, and so on.

If you are concerned with having your home appear “lived in” while you’re away, consider hiring a pet sitter who is able to stay at your house. He or she can bring in mail/newspapers and turn lights on and off, as well as water plants or take care of various other things you may need done.

Once you know that your pet(s) are in good hands while you’re gone, you can more fully enjoy your vacation.