The love of our pets is a well know aspect of family life and having them taken care of while we work or vacation has become a big industry. With dog walkers, doggie day cares, and overnight boarding, the idea of leaving our furry family members in unknown environments can cause great stress to both owner and pet.

Pet sitters are becoming a less expensive alternative to animal boarding. Having someone come into your home to take care of your pet in its own environment is a great way to have the best of both worlds. Your pets have less stress and suffer less separation anxiety and it eliminates worry from an active owner’s life.

What does a Pet Sitter Do?

Pet sitters care for your animals just as a caregiver would care for your children. While pets do not require the same degree of care as a child, a certain degree of supervision and physical and social requirements for the health and safety of all animals.

Depending on the animal your sitter may simply walk your dog and make sure its physical needs are met. Replenishing food and water is mandatory for all sitters and often socializing with attention and affection for 30 minutes can help keep pets happy.

Pet sitters also provide specialize care by following schedules and administering vitamins or medicine at specific times. There are even sitters who will stay at your home to provide an easier transition when you are away.

The Cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $12 -15 for a daily visit which normally would include a short walk. The cost for multiple animals is often several dollars more and if your sitter needs to come twice a day, there may be a reasonable package fee.

If you require overnight services, expect to pay $50 per night and there may be additional charges for major holidays throughout the year.

Most often any overnight fee will include collecting mail and watering plants, which can provide peace of mind for the safety of not only your animals but the security of your home while you are away.

Locating a Pet Sitter

The best way to find a pet sitter is through referral or word of mouth. You can also check your veterinarians office or your groomers for advertisements in their offices. It is in your best interest to interview your sitter and check all references as you would for anyone you allow in your home.

A good pet sitter will offer to visit with your pet to allow the animal to bond with them before they are signed on. If your sitter does not make the time, then they are not right for you.

Any time we bring someone into our home to take care of someone we love, there is a level of trust we must extend. By taking the time to get to know your pet sitter you can find the best fit for your pets that will keep both pet and owner happy.