Deciding to bring a new pet into the family is an exciting time. It’s easy to get lost in the rush of picking out the perfect dog, cat, or other critter that fits in with you and your family’s lifestyle and forget to take care of some of the support your pet might need. Hiring a pet sitter will help you ensure your loved one is taken care of whenever you can be there.
Why Should I Hire A Pet Sitter So Soon?
You might think that starting your search for a pet sitter a few days before your vacation starts is just fine. However, reputable sitters will need to meet your pet, tour your home, and work out the details before agreeing to take care of your animal. Furthermore, good businesses book up quickly. The last thing you want to happen is to find the perfect sitter and be unable to book them because they’re already taking care of other clients.
How Do I Know Which Sitter is Right for Me?
First, you have to decide if you want your pet care to be at home or at a boarding facility. At-home pet care allows your pet to remain in their familiar surroundings and keep to their normal routine, even when you’re away. Being that they won’t be around other animals during this time can also eliminate worries about communicable diseases commonly passed when animals are housed together.
If you decide on at home pet care, what you should look for first is attention to detail. Whether you’re on the phone with the sitter or they’re in your house doing a home visit, are they actively interested and asking questions? Do they write down what you say when you answer their questions? Do they have formal forms and paperwork for you to fill out while they’re at your home? Do they seem to really enjoy being around your pet?
Why Should I Hire a Professional Pet Sitting Company?
While your next door neighbor’s 16-year-old might offer to pet sit for you, there are benefits that come with hiring a professional company. Here are just a few of them.
- Licensing and bonding: If anything should go wrong while the pet sitter is in your home, your valuables will be protected.
- Backup sitters: If there is an emergency for one of the pet care professionals, there will be another in the company who can fill in while they’re unable to care for your animal.
- Expertise: Many professional pet sitters are certified in pet care, and some with pet CPR and first aide. Also, a professional pet sitter is an experienced sitter who will know how to handle situations calmly and with you and your pet’s best interests in mind.
- Reliability: A company certified through Petcare International and other governing bodies has earned this distinction by being a consistent and reputable organization.
Where Can I Start Looking for a Pet Sitter?
Petcare International has a list of certified pet sitters to help you get your start. Remember that the first person you call might not be the person who will end up taking care of your pet. Be sure to look for the attention to detail you and your furry family member deserves.
Congratulations on your new pet!
