If you are traveling this holiday season and unable to take your pet with you, and you are searching for a sitter or boarding facility be sure and do your homework. Here are some questions to ask potential caretakers to make sure you are finding the right situation to fit your needs.
How long have you been doing this?
Many students try pet sitting to make extra money. While they might love dogs, or cats, there is no guarantee of the type of care your pet will receive.
Can I bring my pet in for a trial run first?
Many boarding facilities offer trial runs for free, some really good ones even require that your pet come in for an assessment of his reaction to the environment. So if the one you are contacting does not, contact someone else.
What should/can I bring with my pet?
Find out what personal items are required or recommended to ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible. Bringing her own blanket or bed will be comforting. However, if your dog is a chewer you may not want to risk having the item destroyed or worse, having him choke if left alone for long periods of time. Here’s a suggestion if you can bring such items.. include an article of clothing that you slept in the night before the drop-off. Your scent will hopefully reassure your pet that you are coming back for him.
How often do you clean? (for boarding facilities)
What would you do in the event of an emergency?
Can you provide references?
Then be sure you actually check them.
Are you insured and bonded?
Ask how each of these benefits or protects you as a client.
Will you administer medication? (if necessary)
Do you require that all pets in your care have their shots?
When you go on walks or excursions, do you let the dogs off leash?
Will you take my pet to the vet if she gets sick?
Are the animals supervised / is someone on the premises at all times?
Hopefully this is helpful information, though actually we highly recommend you take your pet with you this holiday season so you don’t have to worry about all this, and to make the family celebrations complete!
