Tips and Advice for Finding the Right Pet Sitter Before Your Vacation
Author: Cindy Aldridge of ourdogfriends.org
As pet owners, we all know the feeling of leaving our furry friends behind when we go on vacation. It can be stressful and worrisome to find the right pet sitter to take care of your precious pets while you’re away. But with a little bit of research and preparation, you can find a pet sitter who will provide the best care for your pets. In this blog post, Hudson Valley Corgis gives you tips and advice on how to choose the right pet sitter for your pets to enjoy a worry-free vacation.
Research Pet Sitters
The first step to finding the right pet sitter is to research pet sitters in your area. A simple online search will provide you with several options. It’s important to do your due diligence and check their credentials, experience, and reviews before deciding on one.
Ask Friends or Family for Recommendations
Ask your friends or family for recommendations. They might know of a trustworthy and reliable pet sitter that they have used in the past. Personal referrals can help save time and also provide reassurance that you’re leaving your pets in good hands.
Contact Potential Sitters
Once you have a list of potential sitters, contact them and ask about their availability, experience, and fees. It’s important to ask about their experience with pets like yours, especially if you have a specific breed that requires specialized care.
Schedule a Meet-and-Greet
Schedule a meet-and-greet with potential pet sitters to see how your pet interacts with them. This will give you an idea of how comfortable your pet is around them and how they handle your pet. During the meeting, discuss feeding schedules, exercise routines, and any special needs that your pet may have.
Check Their References
Always check the references of any potential pet sitter. A good pet sitter will willingly provide you with references from previous clients. Reach out to these references to ask about their experience with the pet sitter.
Ensure They Have Enough Resources
If you have a pet at home, it’s crucial to ensure that you have enough supplies to meet their daily needs. This includes food, water, toys, litter boxes, and medication if necessary. It’s also essential to research and plan for emergencies, such as natural disasters or unexpected vet visits. One example of an emergency supply to consider is a dog muzzle, which can come highly recommended through online reviews and may be necessary for certain situations to keep your pet and others safe.
Establish Clear Expectations and Guidelines
Establish clear expectations and guidelines with your pet sitter. Discuss what is expected of them and what is allowed when it comes to pet care. This includes everything from feeding schedules to exercise routines and where your pet should sleep. If there are any special instructions or concerns that you have, make sure you communicate them.
Designate a Safe Space for Them to Rest and Relax In
Designate a safe space for your pet sitter to rest and relax in. This could be a designated room or a cozy corner of the house. Make sure they have access to all the necessary supplies like food, water, and a litter box. This is important because your pet can be affected by stress around them. If your pet sitter is stressed, your pet will likely be stressed as well.
Provide Emergency Info
It’s important to arm your pet sitter with contact information in case of any emergencies or unpredictable events. Give them your phone number, email address, and other contact information they may need to reach you quickly. Additionally, provide the contact details of your vet. That way, should an emergency arise, the pet sitter can be on top of the situation right away.
Purchase a Pet Insurance Policy
The thought of unexpected medical emergencies for your pet can be nerve-wracking. Protecting them against these risks is now possible with pet insurance policies. Make sure their health and safety are taken care of. Give yourself peace of mind.
With the right amount of research, preparation, and communication, you can find the perfect match for your pet. Follow these tips and advice to ensure that your pet is in good hands while you’re away. Remember, a little bit of planning will go a long way in ensuring that your fur baby is safe and comfortable while you’re enjoying your much-needed vacation.