Why Use a Pet Sitter

Whether for travel or work, hiring a Pet Sitter is just one option for fulfilling your need for pet care.

What does a Pet Sitter do?

• Feed pets and ensure they have fresh water

• Provide exercise and play time with a chance to "take care of business." Pet Sitters will often walk those pets that enjoy that, as well

• Clean any pet messes and litter boxes

• Administer pet medications when needed

• Give TLC

The benefits of using a Pet Sitter:

• Pets are in their own home where everything is more familiar.

• Pets can stay on their own diet and are kept fairly close to their routine.

• Pets don't have to be stressed by traveling to a boarding facility. This is especially a consideration for cats.

• Boarding facilities can sometimes be loud and stressful. Pets can enjoy the peace and quiet of their own home with a pet sitter.

• Pets are not exposed to contagious illnesses like kennel cough.

• Pets get personal, individual care.

• The Pet Owner's home is being checked on regularly, including bringing in the mail, turning the porch light off and on, putting the trash out on trash day, etc. But also, regular visits allow pet sitters to notice any issues with the home that might arise, like a leaking water line...speaking from experience.

• Pet Owners do not have to worry about boarding facility hours. Owners can return home at any hour of the day to happy pets that are ready to welcome them back.

• Hiring a pet sitter is a wonderful option for pet owners that work long days or commute for work and cannot get home to tend to their pet.

• Pet Sitting offers an economical option as it's often less expensive, especially for multi-pet families

• Many pet sitters have experience with smaller pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, etc., as well as large pets like livestock, horses, pigs, goats, etc.

Though there are many benefits, there are a few disadvantages:

• Pets are home alone between a pet sitter's visit and can cause extra mischief.

• Things can happen with the house or the pet between visits.

• No one is home during weather events.

• Being home alone can be an issue for pets with separation anxiety, although in many cases, being in their own home might be a better option for pets with separation anxiety.

Sadly, in today's world, it can be scary to hire someone to come into your home. As with any occupation, there are bad eggs out there. Here are a few tips that might help in hiring a pet sitter:

• Seek recommendations from fellow pet owners or your veterinarian. If your veterinarian knows a pet sitter, that is a good sign.

• Longevity - If the sitter has been in business for a long time, they are usually trustworthy and reliable.

• Check social media and websites but read between the lines in regard to good and bad reviews.

• There are organizations that cater to pet sitters that are also good for pet owners to check. accountability of sitters. Pet Sitter's International, National Association of Pet Sitters, Pet Sit, LLC are some examples, as well as Rover and Care.com. That said, not all good sitters are affiliated with these sites.

• Always schedule a meet and greet before your first need for pet care. During that time, you can assess how you and your pet feel with the sitter.

• The main thing is to trust your gut!

In closing, as a pet owner, you know your pet(s) and what situation works best for them. There are so many wonderful options for pet care nowadays. There is not a one-size-fits-all in pet care...that could actually be another plug for hiring a pet sitter...check all your options and follow your heart.

We love our pets and want what's best for them.