Holiday accommodation booked? Check. Flights secured? Check. But wait…who is going to look after the dog?
Leaving your pet in someone else’s care is a big decision, and choosing the right pet sitter can make all the difference. A good pet sitter should provide a balance of professional care and personal attention, ensuring your pet feels safe and comfortable while you’re away.
Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a pet sitter:
What if Your Pet Gets Sick While You’re Away?
One of the biggest concerns for pet owners is what happens if their pet becomes unwell while they’re away.
Choosing a sitter with basic medical knowledge or access to veterinary support can provide peace of mind. Some pets may require medication, wound care, or close monitoring, so it’s important to ensure your sitter is capable of handling these situations should they arise.
How Anxious is Your Pet?
Some pets are more prone to separation anxiety than others.
If your pet needs extra comfort and attention, it’s essential to find a sitter who understands how to provide reassurance, routine, and plenty of interaction. A sitter with experience handling anxious animals can help maintain a calm and familiar environment (and can help ease your anxiety too!)
Will You Receive Daily Updates?
Being away from your pet can be stressful, but regular updates and check-ins can help ease that worry.
Many professional sitters provide photos, messages, or even video updates to keep owners informed about how their pets are doing. If staying connected is important to you, make sure to ask about this before booking a friend for your fur baby.
Do You Want Your Pet to Stay at Home?
Not all pets require overnight care — some are perfectly fine with daily check-ins to ensure they have food, exercise, and a clean space.
If your pet is independent and comfortable staying home alone for extended periods, a sitter who provides brief visits during the day might be the best option.
What if Your Pet Can’t Stay at Home?
For particularly anxious pets or those requiring more supervision, overnight stays may be necessary. In this case, it’s important to find a sitter who offers continuous companionship rather than leaving pets alone overnight.
Some sitters stay in the home, while others may offer boarding options where your pet can be monitored throughout the night. The cost of overnight stays can vary, so it’s helpful to compare different sitters and what level of care they provide.
How Much Does Pet Sitting Cost?
There is a range of prices for pet sitting services, and the cost will often depend on factors such as your pet’s medical and emotional needs, whether you want to receive daily updates, and whether you prefer your pet to stay at home or be accommodated at the pet sitter’s premises.
It’s important to assess your pet’s specific requirements and compare different services to find the best option that balances care quality with affordability.
Finding the Right Pet Sitter
Choosing the right pet sitter means considering your pet’s needs, temperament, and health requirements. Whether you need occasional check-ins, medical supervision, or full-time companionship, taking the time to research and select a reliable, experienced sitter can help ensure your pet stays happy and healthy while you’re away.
Need pet sitting and only the best care will do? Contact My Family Vet today to secure your booking and peace of mind. Places limited so don’t delay.