Pet sitter protocol

You're going on vacation--who will take care of Buster & Jasmine?

You’re going on vacation—who will watch Fido and Fluffy? These days, people often opt for a pet sitter so the pet can stay in its own comfort zone. How can you feel more comfortable with the sitter? “I recommend professional references from at least three people, preferably from an owner’s local veterinarian or even better, from fellow pet owners,” says Dr. Gina Davis, DVM, of the University of California, Davis. "Licensure may be important, although personally I feel personal knowledge from friends is more important. Having someone who is bonded will help, as you are inviting a stranger into your home!"

The owner should:
•    Interview the sitter while Fido is there: Does your pet respond well to the person, and vice versa?
•    delineate the sitter’s role in case of medical emergency, if you are unreachable;
•    provide updated vaccination information, identification tags and contact numbers for the veterinarian and an emergency clinic;
•    buy extra food, litter and supplies before going away;
•    provide more personal pet information, such as how much and what kind of exercise Fido should get; if Fluffy has a secret hiding place (so as to avoid any panic if Fluffy goes missing); what their favorite toys are, and so on.

The potential pet sitter should:
•    have liability insurance coverage and licensure, and be bonded;
•    have a working relationship or knowledge of local veterinarians, and the ability to transport pets if needed;
•    have a emergency plan available in case of natural disaster or inclement weather;
•    be able to observe pets for any abnormal behavior regarding appetite, urination, water intake, bowel movements, etc.;
•    be familiar with basic first aid and able to administer medications (oral or topical) as necessary.

"I have worked with some pet sitters who have been very good advocates for their charges," Dr. Davis says, "and I have worked with others who have perhaps overrepresented themselves as veterinary nurses/technicians and have overstepped their boundaries regarding providing veterinary care. The bottom line is that a sitter should be a responsible person who acts principally as a caregiver but is able to also become an advocate for their client’s pets should the need arise."

For more questions, checklists, general guidance or to begin your search, visit the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International.

Do you like what you read? Subscribe to Solano Magazine »