by Dori Kenny

Created on: October 19, 2008

Planning a vacation or just working long hours? What about your pets? Are you going to ask the neighbors or your mom to care for them? How about a professional pet sitter? Well, the best reason to hire a professional pet sitter is your pets can stay in their own environment-be with their own stuff, own smells, and limited changes. You get to meet the sitter and explain everything you'd like them to do to care for your pets. Personalized care for your pets in your home-what a great deal!

There are many resources for finding a professional pet sitter. You can ask your veterinarian, check with an animal rescue group, ask your neighbors who have pets, ask somebody at the dog park, or go on-line.

Once you get a name and phone number, or several, call and make an appointment. This gives everybody a chance to meet and "interview" each other. Make sure you and your pets feel comfortable with the sitter and vice versa. Ask what services they offer such as daily visits or overnight care. What do you think your pets need? Find out exactly how long visits are and what they involve. Feeding, watering, and playtime are standard services. What are your expectations? Do you want the sitter to take your Golden Retriever swimming in the pool? Scoop the kitty box? Brush kitty's hair? Is there any medication that needs to be administered? The more information and instructions you can give a pet sitter the better it is for everyone involved.

There are three key questions to ask the potentialpet sitter during the interview. Do they have a back up plan or employees in case they have an emergency and can not take care of your pet? Are they licensed, bonded, and insured? Do they have any references you can call? These phone numbers can either be from other clients, veterinarians, or rescue groups.

When you have decided a particular sitter is a great match for you and your pet, make sure you sign a contract. A contract protects you, your pets, and the sitter. Your signature gives the sitter permission to enter your home and care for your pets. Some pet sitters prefer to be paid up front while others accept payment at the end of the job. Rates can vary a a great deal.

Remember to call your sitter upon your return home so they know their job is done and your pets are back in your care. Then take some time to really notice how your pets are reacting-they'll let you know all about the care they received while you were away. When they are happy, hire that sitter again!

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