Either way, it can be stressful for human, canine and feline alike. You worry about taking them out of their familiar environment. You wonder if they’re being cared for properly. Are they missing you? Are they getting walks and enough food and water? And what about just plain old TLC? Can anyone really love your pet as much as you do?
Ideally, your first choice is to leave them with a pet-friendly neighbour, friend or family member—even a not so pet-friendly one, if it’s just for a night or two. Let’s face it, some cats can go quite awhile before they even notice you’re not around.
Sometimes there just isn’t anyone available that you trust, or they’re allergic. I mean I love my sister, but she’s not really a pet person, so I accept her excuse that she’d love to, but Junior is allergic. Whatever the reason, you’re left wondering if you have to leave your pet with strangers.
Or maybe you’re the independent type who doesn’t want to ask for help, or your pet is so poorly trained or anti-social that no one wants to go near it (for shame). Or maybe you just prefer a neat and tidy business transaction along with the ability to leave town at the drop of a hat, and you have the funds to pay a kennel or home-sitting service.
So here’s what to keep in mind when you’re looking for a pet caregiver.
1. Kennel vs. Home Care. This really is a personal choice. Cats are probably better-suited for extended stays at home. With dogs, if you’re away longer than a long weekend, you may want to consider leaving them with a neighbour, family, or friend so they don’t get lonely. It’s a little tougher on dogs, especially if they’re used to regular walks and feeding routines. Dogs get lonely and feel neglected when left at home alone for great lengths of time, while cats seem to relish the solitude, barely acknowledging your return.
2. Word of mouth referral. Where do your friends, family, neighbours leave their dogs and cats when they can’t find anyone to pet-sit and they need to leave town toute de suite. Ask around and you’ll get a good idea of what’s in the area.
3. Visit the actual location. Before you decide where to leave your pet, or well in advance of ever needing a dog kennel or kitty hotel, you really should see the place with your own eyes, web cam or not.
4. Bring your pet along for the ride. Provided their shots are all up-to-date, it wouldn’t hurt to bring Scruffy along for the visit to (a) familiarize them with the location, and (b) introduce them to the potential caregivers. Even though these places can sometimes be way out in the country—it’s worth a Sunday drive to see if they’re worthy of looking after your little Snookums.
Are the surroundings clean and well-cared for? Do the pets look happy? Do the owners seem warm and friendly—especially with your precious?
5. Get references and call a few. Get at least three references and call them. It doesn’t hurt to ask around to see what you can find out about their reputation in the area.