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MAIN
Pets
Pet
Sitters
With
pets comfortably sharing living space in more than 50 percent
of American households, 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 know they may be exposing their pet
to "strange" food, an unfamiliar environment, and 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,
play time 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 to contact 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 food, treats and
favorite pet toys, tell them about any medications your pet may
need, and provide them with emergency contact numbers or local
veterinary services while you're away.
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 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 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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