Care Pets
Leaving Pets at Home? 16 Tips for Preparing for Pet Care While you Travel
The height of summer travel is upon us and whether you’re heading for a trip to the beach or a wild and wonderful adventure down some rapids, chances are you’re not taking your pets. (Although, if you do want to take them, write me and I’ll send you a copy of my column from last September on tips and hints for traveling with your pet).
When you’re leaving your pets in the care of another there are basic “rules” you both should follow:
1. Reserve your time. You’ll note that many of your neighbors and colleagues travel the same time of year that you do. If you’re hoping your neighbor will watch your cat while you head out of town, confirm that he’ll be in town! Professional companies fill up quickly during busy seasons so you’re wise to reserve your spot for pet-care as soon as you reserve your airfare.
2. Be specific. It’s important that you and your pet-care provider are on the same page. When you say “One scoop of dry in the morning and the evening” make sure your sitter knows which scoop you’re talking about. It’s also a good idea to ensure that the person staying with your five cats “does” litter boxes, otherwise you’re bound to have a huge mess (and possibly strained relationship) when you get home. Other items to specify include: where to dispose of dirty litter, cage liners or doody-bags, how many and what kinds of treats can be distributed, how to use the electronic cat watering machine, the location and instructions for the can opener, which items your bird likes to get into but will do them harm (zippers come to mind), and most importantly what time each day you’d like your visits to occur. Read the rest of this entry »
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How to Choose the Best Pet Sitter
If you’re an animal lover, leaving your pet in the care of others can be stressful for both you and your pet. You may feel like no one will be able to take care of your furry friends as well as you, and may be reluctant to ever leave town without them. So, what can you do to find the best pet care provider possible?
Start by asking friends, neighbors and co-workers who they use to take care of their pets. You can also ask for recommendations from veterinary clinics, pet supply stores and pet groomers.
Once you have some names, call each pet care person on your list and be ready to ask lots of questions. A good pet sitter should be willing to take as much time as needed to answer all of your questions. Here are some questions to ask:
• Why did you decide to become a pet sitter?
• How long have you been taking care of pets? If the person owns a pet-sitting business, ask them how long they’ve been in business.
• What types of pets do you have experience caring for?
• Do you have pets of your own?
• Are you insured?
• Are you bonded?
• How long do you spend at each pet’s home when you visit?
• What is your policy if a pet becomes sick or has an accident while in your care?
• Do you know Pet CPR?
• Do you give pet medications?
• Do you leave a “pet log” of your visits or do you email regular updates about the pet?
• Will you return my calls in a timely manner if I call to check on my pet?
• Will you be the only person taking care of my pet while I’m gone?
• Do you have a backup I can meet if you’re called out of town for a personal emergency while my pet is in your care?
• Can you give me the names of 3 of your clients so I can check your references? Read the rest of this entry »
Related posts
How to Decide Who Will Take Care of Your Pet During Your Holiday
There are many things that have to be taken care of before you can go away on holiday. One important thing to remember is to make sure you find reliable care for your pets. There are several different choices that can be made. You could put your pet in a kennel or cattery. You can have a friend or relative watch your pets. You can hire a professional pet sitter. Another option may even be to take your pet on holiday with you.
The most important thing to remember when planning who will take care of your pet while you are away is obviously the welfare of your pet. You have to consider where and with whom they will feel most comfortable in your absence. Some animals handle change well and others have a hard time being taken out of their daily routine. The option you choose will also depend on how long you plan on being away.
The ideal scenario is to have someone that you trust stay at your home with your pets when you are on holiday. There are also professional pet sitters who offer a variety of services. There are many reputable companies that have trained professionals who are CRB-checked and specialise in pet sitting. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Care Pets, Lovely Pets