Why Hire A Professional Pet Sitter?

About Petsitters
According to the American Humane Society, pets are happiest when they're at home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds and smells. In the past, however, most pet owners had few choices concerning care for their animals when they were away from home. They could turn to friends, neighbors or professional boarders -- all of which are possible solutions, but not ideal for every pet. Many have found that a new alternative presents the best choice of all -- a professional pet care giver who comes into the home to care for the pet while the owner is away. That is indeed why in-home pet-care is one of the fastest growing industries in the country today.

According to the experts, from the pet's perspective, the familiar environment, diet and exercise routine, along with the personal attention provided by a professional pet care giver are the perfect answers. Eliminating the trauma of being transported and minimizing exposure to illnesses of other animals are certainly additional advantages to the owner and pet alike.

The in-home pet care solution is a relief to most owners who no longer have to impose on family, friends or neighbors or have the inconvenience of transporting the pet. There are also extra services offered, such as crime-deterrent measures, watering plants, bringing in the mail, etc.

The incredible growth of the in-home pet care industry over the past few years is evidence of its effectiveness in well satisfied owners with well cared for pets.

General Benefits
There are numerous benefits of using a professional pet care giver; once you have experienced them, you will become an avid user. Each day when you are away, the professional will visit your home to feed, care for and play with your pet. The professional will have a responsibility for both your pet and your home, so you should give the selection of your pet sitter serious consideration. When you hire a professional pet sitter, make sure you take the time for an interview and have all your questions ready. The services offered and fees charged can vary widely. Also, it will be important to see how the professional interacts with your pet. And note what information the caregiver requires from you before taking on an assignment.

Benefits For Your Pet
The pet remains in his or her safe, secure environment, where all the sights, smells, and sounds are familiar. The pet follows his or her customary diet and exercise routine and medical treatments. The pet is not exposed to illnesses or parasites from other animals. The pet is not traumatized by travel to an unfamiliar environment. The pet receives love and personal attention while the owner is away.

Benefits for You
The pet owner is not inconvenienced or upset by having to transport the pet. The pet owner does not have to impose on a friend, family member or neighbor (who sometimes forgets). The pet owner's home is made more secure by crime deterrent measures provided by most professional pet caregivers. The owner is secure in the knowledge that while he or she is away the pet is in capable and caring hands. The pet owner can utilize other special services provided by most professional pet-sitters.

How to Find a Great Pet Sitter

• The sitter has experience in caring for pets and is mindful of their safety and well-being.
• The sitter visits the client's home before the first pet sitting assignment to meet the pets and get detailed information about their care.
• The sitter shows a positive attitude during the initial meeting and is comfortable and competent dealing with animals.
• The sitter is owner operated ensuring your pets are cared for by the owner, not employees.
• The sitter wants to learn as much as possible about the animals in his or her care.
• The sitter is courteous, interested and well informed.
• The sitter wants to learn as much as possible about the animals in his or her care.
• The sitter conducts business with honesty and integrity and observes all federal, state and local laws pertaining to business operations and animal care.
• The sitter has a contingency plan for pet care in case of inclement weather or personal illness.
• The sitter refrains from criticizing competitors.
• The sitter answers clients’ inquiries and complaints promptly and is always available to clients.
• The sitter provides references.