Choosing a Pet Sitter

If you are going away and need to have someone take care of your animal, here are a few things to consider.

Having someone come to your house and care for your animal is a new option and an alternative to a boarding facility.  This may help the animal because they do not have to be taken out of their routine and thrust into a new scenario.  Consider also notifying your vet clinic that you are away and leave a credit card number with them in case of an emergency.

There are several advantages to having a pet sitter:

· Your pet will be receiving quality time

· They will be enjoying the same diet/feeding and exercise routine

· There are no risks of contracting any airborne/contagious diseases from a kennel

· No need to rely on roommates or neighbours whose schedules may not be conducive to caring for your pet

· Being able to trust someone who will put your pet’s needs and well-being first

How can you find a pet sitter?

·        Yellow Pages/animal businesses

·        Local dog daycare centers/dog walkers

·        Check with your veterinary clinic

·        Grooming facilities

What to look for:

·   Proof of liability insurance:  know that your animal is safe while you are away.  Even if you are not present, you are still responsible for their actions

·   Has the caretaker had any previous pet experience?  For example:  previous pet sitting, animal first aid, training experience

·   Will they ask for information on your dogs routine, behaviour, medications, likes and dislikes etc?

·   Do they have a back up person should an emergency arise?

·   Written or oral contract about service fees?

·   References available to ensure that they are responsible?

Important notes for owners:

·   Your dog may come to you when you take them off leash, however they may not come to someone else.  It is important to have pet sitters keep the dog on leash until they are comfortable with the dog and vice versa

·   Also, ensure that the pet sitter adheres to the leash by-laws

·   Cats that are allowed to go outside are more likely to “take off” as their routine has changed due to the owner’s absence.  Keeping the cat indoors only for this time ensures that the cat will not go missing

·   Leave contact information so the pet sitter can get in touch with you should an emergency arise

·   If you do not know the pet sitter, have them come over to meet the animals prior to you leaving.  This gives you the opportunity to show the pet sitter around the house and let them know about the pets routine

·   Another alternative is to have the pet stay at the pet sitter’s house.  This can provide the pet with a “vacation”.

·   It is important for the pet to have a consistent routine, some animals can become stressed and act out of character when routines change

Pet resorts and kennels are also great options.  It is always a good idea to visit the kennel before hand if possible to get an idea of how your pets visit will be.  Look for businesses that provide supervision if there are several dogs.  Do not be afraid to ask questions about how situations are handled or about the daily routines.

Knowing that your pet is being well cared for while you are on vacation can make all the difference!