1.Why hire a pet sitter?
Pets adjust better to their owner’s absence when they remain in their home. Advantages:
· reduced stress as your pet stays in a familiar surrounding
· no imposition on family and friends
· you are not upset by having to drop pet at a kennel
· diet and exercise routines are not interrupted
· no travel trauma
· minimal exposure to illnesses from other animals
· receive tender loving care while you are away
· flexibility if your plans change
· your home looks lived in
· email/phone updates while you’re not there (if you wish)
2. How do I know I am hiring a competent, trustworthy, honest service?
Hiring checklist:| Art's Pet Sitting | |
| · National Memberships | Member Pet Sitters International (PSI) | · Business Registration/License | Registered in RSM | · Liability Insurance | Yes | · Bonded | Yes | · Referrals | Yes | · Emergency Pet Care Procedure | CPR/Rescue Breathing Trained | · Key Security | Keys Tagged with Client ID# | · Contract and other forms | Yes. All clients receive copies. |
3. How do I prepare my home and pet?
Pet:
· Ensure there will be enough food, treats, kitty litter while you are away
· If pet on medication leave detailed instructions on its use
· Put ID tags on each pet
· Provide outdoor pets with secure enclosure and place for shelter
· Leave favorite toys for pet to play with
· Leave vets name, phone and address
· Show sitter where leashes, litter, food, bowls, medication (if needed) are kept
Home:
· Show sitter how to operate security system and make sure they try it
· Give sitter 2 sets of keys and watch while sitter locks and unlocks door
· Let sitter know if anyone else will be home or can have access while you are away
· Put potentially dangerous plants/decorations out of your pets reach
· Shut off rooms/areas where pets are not allowed
· Leave lights on if sitter will be coming after dark
· Give sitter information on how you can be contacted or if you can’t be contacted then
the phone number of someone who can make decisions on your behalf