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March 6 – 12 is professional Pet Sitters Week which was created to inform pet parents about the benefits of choosing a professional pet sitter.
With warmer weather around the corner, numerous people begin looking forward to a much-needed vacation. but often there is one nagging worry – who will look after the animals while you’re away? After all, unless you can bring your pet with you, it’s challenging to unwind and actually delight in the getaway until you’re certain that Fido is in good hands. The essential is to begin your planning now so you will have peace of mind knowing exactly who will be looking after your canine or cat when getaway time rolls around.
Options for pet care when you go on vacation
First, you’ll need to decide whether to board your pet, or leave him at home. staying in a luxury hotel is fun for us, but dogs and cats feel happiest and many protected in their own homes. Leaving your pet in an unfamiliar environment can add to the tension he’s already feeling about your absence. In addition to feeling safer at home, boarding subjects your pet to the tension of traveling to the kennel as well as potential exposure to other pets, illnesses and parasites. You’ll also have to coordinate your schedule with the operating hours of the facility; if you arrive home from getaway after company hours, you’ll have to wait until the next day to be reunited with your pet. numerous boarding facilities are booked far in advance, so booking can be challenging, especially around popular holiday times.
If you do choose to let your pet stay in the comfort of your home while you’re away, the next step is to select a caregiver. You could simply ask a neighbor, coworker, friend or family member to look in on your canine or cat, but are you 100% certain that they’re reliable and would know what to do in an emergency? It can also be awkward to always impose on others to care for your pet, especially if you travel frequently. This is where a professional pet sitter becomes invaluable.
Consider a professional pet sitter
Professional pet sitters are experienced and have been trained to deal with animals of all types, and to recognize when veterinary care is needed in an emergency. A professional pet sitter will be licensed and bonded, and can be relied upon to show up as scheduled and take outstanding care of your pet, even giving medications if necessary. many pet sitters will also offer basic care of your home, such as bringing in the mail and watering the plants, if requested.
There are several resources that can help you find a trusted pet sitter, such as the National association of professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), Rover.com, or Pet Sitters international (PSI). It’s best to set up a time well in advancement of your getaway to meet with the prospective pet sitter and review your pet’s needs. Some things you ought to be prepared to discuss:
What’s included in the service? Ask about fees, and frequency and duration of visits
Don’t be scared to ask for references
Go over your pet’s diet, any required medications, and treats
Provide the pet sitter with your contact information and departure/arrival dates
Provide the pet sitter with your vet’s contact information
Ask how you can contact the pet sitter while you’re away
Vacations are the ideal time to unwind and unwind, and with proper research and planning, hiring a professional pet sitter can guarantee your pet is in good hands during your time away.
Win a totally free getaway pet feeder!
Whether you’re going for a short overnight trip or just can’t get home at your pet’s regular feeding time, an automatic food dispenser will guarantee your pet is fed at his or her regular mealtime. For a chance to win an Aspen Pet Lebistro Programmable Food Dispenser (holds 5 pounds), leave a comment below telling us who watches your canine or cat when you’re away.
The random winner will be drawn next Thursday, March 17, 2016, so everyone who participates has a chance to win. good luck! (Limited to residents of the U.S.)
Congratulations to the winner of our drawing, Guillermo!
Pet Care