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Pet sitters are exactly like baby sitters, they are employed to take care of a pet within the home. Usually, pet owners hire them on a contract basis when they go on vacations but they can also be employed for a shorter duration such as an evening.
The advantage of hiring a pet sitter is that the pet is taken care of within its environment. Any animal can become stressed when taken into a new and unknown environment; they may also suffer from travel sickness on route to a kennel or cattery. Pet sitters can be a great alternative to boarding for those who have multiple pets and/or those with special needs that require extra attention.
Pet sitters can offer different arrangements, however basic requirements are to look after the food and water needs of the animal. They maintain the normal routine of the pet and can give non-urgent medication if required. They also play with the pet and maintain the litter box, bird cage or paddock (yes some will pick up horse poo). There are sitters that provide special services such as injecting insulin, administering subcutaneous fluids, and checking blood pressure and glucose levels. In such cases, the knowledge of the pet sitter should be discussed with your vet. Other services may include collecting your mail, taking your pet to the vet for check-ups while you are away or training your pet.
It is important to conduct a pet sitter interview, before hiring
candidate for the job. The interview can be arranged over the phone but it is best for the sitter to visit the premises to meet you and the pet they will be looking after. This offers you a better insight to whether you are comfortable with them and most importantly if your pet is! While some sitters are pet lovers that simply enjoy spending time with and looking after pets; there are those that are qualified vet nurses. Expect to pay more for those with relevant qualifications.
Take time to ask numerous questions and most importantly ask for numbers so you can talk with past clients. You may also feel more comfortable hiring a pet sitter if you know what pets they have at home, so don't be afraid to ask. Check out page 5 for the top 10 questions to ask your potential pet sitter. Do not expect a sitter to have in-depth knowledge of every kind of pet as many will have a certain type of pet they prefer to sit, the key to finding this out is to ask as many questions as possible.
Understanding the payment terms and completing paperwork prior to commencement. It is also a good idea to check with your insurance company regarding any claims made during the time a pet sitter is looking after your pet. It is unlikely anything bad will happen but important to understand your obligations.
Finding the best pet sitter may take some time so start your search early. Also remember that great sitters will be harder to source around holidays and long weekends as they will have repeat bookings by clientele that trust them. Once you find a good pet sitter return visits by them will become less stressful for you and your pets.
pET SITTING what to expect