Selecting a pet sitter
Animal Companions Column:
Selecting a Pet Sitter
by Hawaiian Humane Society
Published Sunday, March 12, 2000, Honolulu Advertiser
Perhaps you are finally getting comfy as you fly over the Pacific or maybe you are already several days into your vacation or business trip when all of a sudden harsh reality sinks in and you suddenly gasp: "How will Skippy get along without me?" Even though you were rushing to leave, you made sure someone would be taking care of your animal companion–providing food, water, shelter and exercise–but a moment of panic hits when you recall all those intricate details, like leaving the light on for him and scratching under his ears, that you forgot to mention.
Many animal lovers admit to such panic–and even guilt–when they leave their animals home and dependent on the care of others. Indeed, some people feel such strong remorse at leaving their pets that they rarely stay away overnight, much less go on a vacation. How do you ensure that your pet receives the best care possible and that you experience the least amount of worry when you're away from home? By planning weeks, and sometimes months, ahead of time. Start planning now and your pet will be secure when your summer trip comes around.
First determine what kind of care is best for your pet. If she is independent and doesn't need constant attention, then hire a part-time pet sitter or have a close relative come over to provide food and water and a bit of companionship for her. If he needs constant supervision and a variety of medications, then consider having a live-in pet sitter.
A part-time reputable sitter will help to maintain your pet's ongoing routine, including feeding, exercise and play, medication schedules, grooming and cleanup. Determine how much time these tasks will take and how many visits to your home they entail each day. Pet sitters sometimes perform additional services, such as bringing in mail and newspapers, watering plants and turning lights on and off. It is crucial that such peripheral duties don't take time away from the care of your pet, so make sure you allot additional time for extra tasks.
Make sure your sitter has plenty of supplies and clear instructions. Have more-than-adequate quantities of food, medicines and necessities such as toys, leashes, bowls and litter. Remember all necessary supplies for birds and small pets, including paper to line a cage. Your pet sitter will have more time for your animal if he or she is not running around gathering supplies.
Your instructions should be clear, concise and written. Note how much food to give (leave a measuring cup); precise mealtimes; where food bowls should be placed (particularly if you have more than one pet–it's important to get each bowl in the proper place so there are no sudden territorial issues); how often to refresh water bowls; and normal sleep and elimination times.
Instructions for medications are particularly important. Again, write out the name of the medication(s) and what it is for; the proper dosage (leave a measuring spoon or dropper, if necessary); when it should be given; and if it needs to be accompanied by food or water.
Sitters also need to know about any potential health problems or unique behaviors. If your pet wheezes after a long walk or growls if scratched on the back, then let the sitter know in your instructions. Is your cat fussy about the litter box? Does your pet have favorite hiding places? Err on the side of caution. Even if your dog listens well to you when taken off a leash, it's a good idea to instruct your sitter to always use a leash except when in a home or an enclosed yard. And make sure your pet is wearing identification.
Leave contact numbers: where you will be and when; the name, phone number and address of the pet's veterinarian (leave your veterinarian the sitter's name and phone number and the authority for treatment); the name and phone number of a close friend or relative in case of emergency. Let your sitter know if and when you plan to call and check up on your pet. Remember to note when you will return.
How do you find a pet sitter? Those who have a relative, friend or neighbor who knows your pet well and are happy to take the time are lucky. For healthy, adaptable pets, hiring a neighbor or trading pet-sitting services with another pet-owning neighbor may work well. Neighbors are close by and can visit several times during the day and at night. When depending on others, however, it is important that they know animals and have cared for them before. Caring for a cat may be puzzling for someone who has been a dog person their whole life and vice versa.
Professional pet sitters are generally very knowledgeable. Find one who has lots of experience caring for your kind of pet. One of the best ways to find a pet sitter is by referral from someone you know who has used a trusted professional sitter over a period of time. A professional may carry insurance or will be bonded and will have their business registered and licensed. They will supply references and referrals from clients. Interview a professional sitter, observe how they interact with your pet and call their references. They should have a contract that outlines the dates and type of service and may have a clause giving permission for veterinary care if your pet becomes ill in your absence. While the best referral is by personal reference, you can find pet sitters in the phone book and on bulletin boards at pet stores, veterinary clinics and grooming salons. There are also several national registry services that list their members on the Internet (National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International).
With careful planning, you will be able to take off over the Pacific knowing that your beloved pet will be happy and secure while you are away.