Amy Mishima's Happy Dog Owner Blog
What are the Pros and Cons of In-Home Pet Sitting?
The last thing anyone wants on vacation is being stressed out. But if you have a pet that you need to leave behind while you’re away, you understand that this feeling can be all too common. While there is the equally popular option of boarding your cat or dog, this article is specifically about pet sitting.
Simply defined, pet sitting is the act of caring for pets in their own home while the owner is away. And keep in mind that when I say pet sitting, I’m referring to a reputable pet care company, not a neighbor or friend.
Let’s start with the cons. What are the reasons for finding another pet care alternative instead of pet sitting?
The pet sitter will need to enter your home while you’re away. This may seem obvious, but it’s definitely a legitimate concern. Be sure you choose a pet sitting company that thoroughly screens their sitters.
Another negative is that your pet will be alone for much of the day. This may not be detrimental if you work since your pet is already used to that, but it could be stressful for pets that are used to having company throughout their normal day.
Now, the pros of pet sitting.
Your pet gets to stay within the comfort of their own home and can stick to their everyday routine of feeding, potty breaks, walks, and playtime. As the owner of an Elmhurst pet care company, we make it top priority to keep detailed notes on every important detail of our clients’ pet’s normal day and will find a solution that allows them to stick to that regime.
Sitters can do the housesitting chores in addition to caring for Fido. They can bring in the mail, water plants, turn the lights on or off, and ensure your house is maintained.
Pet sitting is more personal. The visits will be done on your requested schedule. And your pet is getting one-on-one attention and care.
There is less risk for them to be exposed to contagious illnesses that may be lurking in a kennel.
This corresponds to the first pro above, but if you have an anxious pet, it will definitely be easier for them to relax at home rather than being in a kennel where there is very rarely quiet time. The constant barks of other dogs may make it harder for certain pets to settle down if they aren’t used to a constant level of noise.
As the pet parent, you won’t have the hassle of dropping off and picking up your pet from anyone or anywhere.
Should you decide that hiring a pet sitter is the best way for your beloved pet to remain as comfortable and happy as possible while you’re away, make sure to thoroughly check into whatever pet sitting company you choose. Go with your gut. If you don’t feel comfortable with the sitter you’re meeting, on to the next!
Believe me, there are plenty of pet care companies out there and it’s important to find the right one for you and your pet.
Feeling 100% secure with the decision you make will allow you to spend your vacation stress free and as relaxed as a vacation should be.
