subject: Finding The Right Person To Care For Your Pet [print this page] If you're a pet owner who wants to travel, one of the first things you have to consider when planning a vacation is what to do with your pets. One of the options you may want to consider, especially if you have multiple pets of different species, is a pet sitter.
Pet-sitters are generally flexible and will not specialize in any particular category of animal. They look after a variety of canine, feline, reptile and other species. Some also extend their services to include bringing in your mail, watering your plants and even changing lighting in your home as a safety precaution.
You have many avenues available to finding a favorite pet-sitter including recommendations from friends and co-workers, or via an internet search.
The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters will search for pet sitters in your area.
Growth in the pet care industry in recent years means many communities have professional pet-sitting firms available, but in some areas you may still be forced to rely on individuals who may be full-time caregivers or choose to take care of pets as a part-time option.
In any case if you choose the professional or the widow down the road, there are still some things to think about before hiring a pet-sitter. You should check these person's credentials as well as look around.
After you locate a local pet-sitter, you should first confirm that they are comfortable with your type of pet. Some people can handle pit bulls, but won't get near a snake. Confirm the type of animals that they are certified or experienced in caring for and only follow-up further with those who you believe can do the job.
After narrowing down your list of potential sitters, you will want to see how they interact with your pets, especially if you have protective, nervous or timid animals. A shy animal might need to get acclimated to a new person. It is essential that you evaluate a pet sitter before hiring them. Even if your animal is calm and easy to manage, you'll want to make sure that the person is going to interact well.
Once you find the person that you feel comfortable with, you still have more work to do. You must check employment references. Make sure they have provided care where they say they have and that they are dependable. A pet-sitter who is insured and bonded provides an extra level of protection for you and your pet, so that can be assured that your beloved animal is in the hands of a professional.
