Why Use a Professional Pet Sitter?

By Kristie Leong M.D., Oct 27, 2007

It would be nice if we could take our animal friends with us when we go on trips but this isn't always possible. For this reason, you need to feel that your pets are secure and properly cared for when you leave home. One option for caring for your pet while you're away is the use of a professional home pet sitter. A professional pet sitter will come to your home and care for your pets in a loving and caring way while you're away. You can generally choose the number of visits that a home pet sitter makes each day in your absence.

Why is a pet sitter better for your pet than a boarding kennel?

• Your pet will feel more comfortable being in a familiar environment

Your pet can remain in a familiar setting. An animal can become agitated, disoriented, and even depressed when they're placed into an unfamiliar environment such as a kennel. Home pet sitter services are designed to avoid this unnecessary trauma.

• Your pet can maintain the same diet and feeding habits he's accustomed to

Your pet may also be more reluctant to eat in a new environment. Lack of food is especially hazardous to cats. A sudden change in diet and feeding schedule can cause your pet to experience intestinal problems such as diarrhea.

• It's more convenient for the pet owner

There is no need to take your pet and his supplies to a kennel. With a professional pet sitter, you just leave the supplies out along with instructions.

• You don't have to worry about kennel pick up hours

Kennels usually have set hours of operation and may not even be open to the public on certain days such as Sunday. If you return from your trip on a weekend, you may have to wait an extra day to pick up your pet.

• A pet sitter can do the necessary tasks to make your house look occupied

Most home pet sitters offer special services such as watering plants, picking up your mail and newspapers and turning lights on and off. This makes your house appear occupied which may reduce the risk of a burglary.

• Your pet isn't exposed to communicable disease from other animals

At a kennel, animals are often kept in close quarters. Your pet could catch illnesses from other animals. With a professional pet sitter, your pet has no exposure to other pets.

A professional pet sitter can give you and your pet peace of mind when you have to be away from home. When choosing a pet sitter, be sure to ask for testimonials from other satisfied pet owners to be sure your pet is placed in competent and loving hands.

« back to home page