by Chrystina Trulove-Reyes

Created on: August 23, 2008   Last Updated: July 24, 2009

Whenever we go on a trip we often have the same question, especially if we have pets. What are we supposed to do with Spot? A lot of factors tie into that choice. What about the other animals? Can we afford a kennel? Should we get a pet sitter? Can we trust either one? Should I get a contract?

Other Animals

Many people have more than just dogs or cats. They could have birds, reptiles, rabbits or other rodents that have to be taken care of. In the case of most of these creatures, boarding services won't include them. Some, mostly reptiles, can be overfed and left for a week or more due to their slow digestive systems. But what about the others? In this case, it is suggested to get someone to watch your animals in your home, such as a relative or a friend.

Kennel/Boarding

The costs of kennels and other boarding around your town will most likely fluctuate. This can be due to the quality of care received and the size of the kennels offered. The range in prices can, and often does, involve the size of the pet you wish to be boarded. If you are lucky, you might find a local kennel to board your pet for around twenty dollars a night. At this point, you have to figure out how long you will be gone and factor that in. If it's a two week vacation, then the cost of boarding your pet will be much more expensive than if you are going on a three day weekend, as you know.

Pet Sitter

Pet sitters often charge by the hour often only do daycare and, once in a while, a weekend. Sometimes these fees can surpass those of a kennel. They will do more for you than just watch your animal, such as watering plants, and getting your mail. They can also act as a house-sitter to make it look as though you are still at your house to those outside the home. The other animals can be included in a contract with a pet-sitter, as long as they agree to care for the other animals.

Trust

Dog kennels are a business and ran like a business. They have to get licensed and registered in their state and perform regular inspections of the facilities to keep their operation open. So, they will often give quality services. However, sometimes many dogs are boarded at one time and this can cause your pet to not get the attention s/he deserves, if they do not have enough employees.

Pet sitters do not need to have a license and can be anyone. With any pet sitter it is important to try and get references from their previous work. If you cannot get references then it is suggested to look somewhere else.

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