
Why Your Dog Might Be Vomiting
No sound will get a dog owner’s attention quite like…
We all need a little R&R now and then. Still, for many pet owners, the idea of leaving our pets behind or boarding them in a high-stress kennel environment takes the relaxation out of R&R.
Increasingly, pet owners are turning to Pet Sitters to either stay with their pets or to have them come in and check on their furry friends while they are away. A good Pet Sitter will spend quality time with your pet, give him exercise, and recognize if your pet needs veterinary attention.
When done thoughtfully, there can be many benefits to hiring a Pet Sitter. March 9th through 13th is Professional Pet Sitters Week. Keep reading to learn how you can best look for a Pet Sitter and the important questions you should be asking before hiring someone to help care for your pets.
Benefits to Your Pet:
Benefits to You:
However, just because a friend or neighbor has pets, loves pets, or has walked your dog doesn’t mean they have enough experience to entrust with the care of your beloved pet in your absence. You are placing your trust, your home, and your pet in the care of someone, so it is crucial that you take the time and do your part to find a qualified, reliable professional with whom you and your pets feel comfortable.
An excellent place to start looking for a Pet Sitter is with a recommendation from a friend, neighbor, veterinarian, humane society, or dog trainer.
You can also contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, by going directly to their website and using their search tool to locate a professional in your area. Another popular place to find local Pet Sitters is on any of the following websites:
Ask trusted friends or relatives if they can recommend a pet sitter whom they have used before. Referrals are a great way to get names of Pet Sitters that have proven reliable. Once you talk to the sitter and decide if it is a good fit, you should ask for a list of references, including one from a past client and one from a current client.
The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters has a complete list of questions to ask references when looking to hire a Pet Sitter.
Before settling on a Pet Sitter, you want to see for yourself how the person interacts with your pet. Pets often have an instant positive connection or negative reaction to people. A Pet Sitter can have all the training and experience in the world, but that will be of little use if your pet doesn’t take to him or her well.
Of course, you want someone who loves pets, is experienced with them and who has even had or has pets of their own. It would be best if you also looked for a Pet Sitter who has cared for a variety of pets over time.
Whether you are looking for a Pet Sitter to stay in your home or to stop by a few times a day, you want to be sure whomever you hire can meet the needs of your pet and keep to your pet’s schedule as much as possible.
Ideally, a sitter should be able to take your dog on walks as frequently, and for the length of time, he is used to. If you are looking for someone to care for your cat, you will likely want the person to spend some time in your home playing with your cat or merely keeping her company.
Commercial liability insurance covers accidents and negligence. Most professional pet sitting organizations suggest that pet sitters get insured and bonded, so they are covered in the event of costly accidents.
Most insurance companies will offer a certificate of proof that the person is insured.
Many experienced Pet Sitters will have training in pet CPR, pet first aid, and animal behavior. You may also want to know if a potential sitter has experience or training with a specific breed or with pets with special needs.
It would be best if you also asked how a potential sitter would handle an emergency and what emergencies he has encountered in the past.
This question is important, particularly since not all dogs get along with other dogs. You want to be sure the time a sitter is spending with your pets is dedicated to your pets unless you’ve made other agreements.
If the interview goes well and you click with a potential sitter, it is still crucial to have the person come to your home and see how they interact with your pets in your home. If you and your pets feel comfortable, start by hiring the sitter for a brief trial, such as a day trip or an overnight trip.
Here at PetFirst, we know accidents and illnesses happen to all pets, even while under the care of the best Pet Sitters. PetFirst is here for every canine and cat as pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet visits.
Pet insurance provides peace of mind that if your pet gets sick or injured, you don’t have to worry about the financial aspect of your pet’s care. Make sure your pet is covered with PetFirst Pet Insurance. We offer coverage for both dogs and cats and offer Routine Care Coverage to fit every budget.