by GALTime.com
It's vacation season and that means sun, fun and what the heck are we going to do with our dog? Or cat, if you're a cat person. For many people, the thought of leaving their much loved, four-legged family member in a boarding kennel is too hard. A pet sitter is another good option. A neighbor or nearby family member may volunteer to help out, but Dr. Susan Nelson, veterinarian and clinical assistant professor at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, says there are some things you need to keep in mind when choosing a pet sitter.
Here are her tips:
* Have the pet sitter come to your home to meet your pet prior to the sitting, so you can observe how sitter and pet interact.
* Ask what services the sitter offers, such as in-home grooming, walking, training and playtime.
* Ask what training the sitter has received.
* Ask if the pet sitter can provide written proof of insurance and/or if they are bonded.
* Ask for a list of other clients as references.
* Ask if the sitter associated with a veterinarian and if the sitter is willing to use your veterinarian for emergency.
* Find out if the sitter has an experienced backup.
* Ask if the sitter is comfortable and experienced at giving medications and/or injections, if needed.
* Find out how often the sitter will check on your pet.
* Ask for a written service contract that spells out the sitter's services and fees.
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