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MAIN
Pets
Pet
Sitters
With
pets comfortably sharing living space in more than 50 percent
of American households alone, it's no wonder that pet sitting
services, dog boarding camps and pet spas have taken off in recent
years.
Of all options
available, pet sitting is the preferred one for many pet owners
for several good reasons. Whether it be a dog,
cat, parakeet
or gerbil,
most pets feel safer in their own familiar surroundings.
And staying
at home not only eliminates the stress on pets. It also lessens
the trauma for owners who fear they may be exposing their pet
to unfamiliar foods or environments, or exposure to other animals'
illnesses.
How to
choose a pet sitter
Before you
invite a pet sitter into your home, experts advise that you hire
someone who is trained or certified for the job, or is bonded
or covered by liability insurance to cover possible accidents
or negligence.
Also ask about
what related services are provided - such as grooming, walking
(for dogs), play time (for cats) or other activites. Do they provide
a written contract detailing their services? Do they have a backup
pet sitter in case they become ill? Finally, don't forget to inquire
about possible references so that you can contact those who have
recently used their services.
Let them
know before you go
Once you do
find someone you trust, relieve your own separation anxiety by
working with your pet sitter before you go on your trip. Make
sure the sitter knows where to easily locate such necessary items
as:
- for cats,
the location of your cat box and where you store the kitty litter
- for dogs,
the location of collars, leashes or halters
- food, treats
and favorite pet toys
- any medications
your pet may need
- where you
store your pet carrier
- emergency
contact numbers for local veterinary services
More about
pet sitters around the Web
Detailed expert
advice is widely available online, including information on top
sites offering directories of pet sitters in the U.S., U.K. Canada
and worldwide, tips on to what to look for in a good pet sitter
and how to work with them, plus related guides to keeping your
pet healthy & happy all year long ...
Choosing
a Pet Sitter
- The U.S. Humane Society guide to the benefits of hiring and
working with a cat or pet sitter, related links, video presentation
and links to more information and pet sitter resources.
National
Association of Pet Sitters - Locate a certified pet sitter
in your area by dialing the 800 number, or searching online by
U.S. zip code, with information for pet owners on benefits of
pet sitters, best qualifications, how to choose one, and related
tips before you go on holiday or vacation.
Pet
Sitters International - Searchable database of accredited
pet sitters in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and worldwide with related
articles & features on Take Your Dog to Work Day, proper pet
care, tips & advice.
Petsit
USA - One-stop online search for pet sitting, dog walking
services, organized dog play groups and related services plus
where to find dog runs in major cities, a checklist of what to
look for before you hire a pet sitter, related FAQ, free online
newsletter.
Pet
Sitters Center - Directory of USA pet sitters - Use the
clickable map to locate a cat or pet sitter in all 50 states,
with listings featuring contact info and Web links where available.
also
see -> Traveling
with Pets | Dog
Health Insurance
Pet
Friendly Vacations
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