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Tips from Lori and Scott Mangold who train professional Pet Sitters...
As a flight attendant, I understood the problems that arise when travel separates people from their pets. My husband, Scott, and I even postponed our honeymoon for a year because we did not live near our families or know our neighbors well enough to trust leaving our pets in their care. We knew they would be happier and safer in our home and we were sure other people preferred to keep their pets at home, too. In 1988 we started our pet sitting business called "Paws for Awhile". After only a few months, our service was so successful, we were turning away business!
Why is pet sitting booming?
Because our lifestyles are changing. Today, we are more career-oriented, we travel more for business and pleasure and depend increasingly on domestic services. Our pets are an important part of our families and finding proper care for them can be a problem. Now, our 'babies' can stay in their own homes where they are safe and happy and we no longer have to worry about them when we leave.
What is a professional pet sitter?
Someone who, by agreement and for fee, comes to your home and provides the exact pet care you require and home security while you are away.
What are the advantages of in-home pet care?
1. Pets stay in their own homes and familiar environment.
2. They are not exposed to other animals' illnesses.
3. The pet sitter provides security checks, brings in the mail and papers and alters lights and window blinds.
4. The pet sitter will also water your plants -- they are pets too!
A couple of years ago, I saved 2 kitties' lives! A man and his wife moved to our cold climate from Florida and hired me to care for their kitties at Christmastime. On my first visit, I heard water running, went into the garage and water was pouring out of the wall. Their garage was flooding! They neglected to disconnect the outside water hose, the water froze and burst the pipe. I was able to turn off the water and save the kitties and their brand-new home.
How Can You Find a Professional Pet Sitter?
1. Ask other pet owners for their recommendation(s).
2. Ask your veterinarian.
3. Inquire at pet stores and grooming shops.
4. Look in the telephone Yellow Pages under Pet Boarding and Sitting.
How Will You Know if a Pet Sitter is Reputable?
1. Does the pet sitter have liability insurance and bonding?
2. Does the pet sitter have a business license or home occupation permit?
3. Is the pet sitter willing to provide references? (Be sure to check these!).
I suggest you copy the following list and use it when you interview pet sitters in your home. People may be able to fool you, but they cannot fool your pets. Make sure your pets are present during the interview! How does the pet sitter relate to your pets?
Here are some important questions to ask:
1. Tell me about your pets. You'll recognize that animal-lover’s smile when they answer.
2. How much time will you spend with my pets? Their voice may be the only one your pets will hear for days.
3. Have you ever been in an emergency situation? How did you handle it?
4. What is your service routine? Ask them to describe in detail what they will do when they visit your home.
5. If you become ill, who will take care of my pets? Do they have a spouse or family member they can call on?
6. What happens if your car breaks down? Pet sitters should have a contingency transportation plan.
Make sure that you and the pet sitter complete, date and sign a Service Agreement.
This is a must! This document details descriptions of your pets, travel dates, how they can contact you in case of emergency, a local emergency contact, persons with access to your home, location of food and supplies, your veterinarian's name and telephone number, detailed services to be performed, special instructions and fees.
A reliable professional pet sitter will have a disciplined routine when they visit your home.
Following are a few suggestions that may help:
1. Make sure they try your key in your door. You could give them the wrong key!
2. Never mail your key. It may not arrive in the envelope.
3. Do not put your name on the key. Use a number instead.
4. Show your pet sitter where to find the pet carrier, carpet cleaner and manual can opener (in case the power goes out).
5. Discuss pet care. We call it the "Big Four": food, fresh water, potty break, and lots and lots of affection!
6. Before they leave your home, ask that they locate all pets to make sure they have not been accidentally closed in a room or closet.
7. Be sure to call the pet sitter to let them know when you are home. They will worry until they know your pets are being cared for.
If you invest the time to locate a competent, caring professional pet sitter and clearly define instructions for them, your future trips will be worry-free. Because you will know your ‘babies’ will get the best possible care – in their own home!
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Source: Copyright © 2008 Lori and Scott Mangold
Authors of The Professional Pet Sitter: Your Guide to Starting and Operating a Successful Service Edition 2005 Newly-Revised Includes Business Forms
Paws-itive Press® at http://www.pawsitivepress.com
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