Pet sitting

When you're going on vacation and can't take your pet with you, you'll need a pet sitter to look after your pets temporarily while you're away.

Pet sitting involve someone taking care of your pets in your absence. The pet sitter may be a friend or relative, or a professional pet sitter who will visit your home to feed and provide companionship to your pets. Alternatively, pet boarding, also known as pet hotels, are facilities when you can drop off your pets for a short period of time. These facilities vary in the extent of amenities provided. Traditional boarding provide for your pet's basic needs such as feeding and exercise while more upscale luxury resorts offer grooming, training, massage and even swimming pools.

• Research all options. Whether you plan to use friends, family, a referral, or a professional, get to know what their qualifications, experience and expertise are in raising your animal. It is good to meet them in person with your pet rather than completely rely on information obtained online. If you sense it will stretch the friendship, don't push it.
• Check the location of where your pet will be staying. Ensure the location is safe and secure with adequate fencing and sufficiently spacious. Tour the area before making your final decision.
• Provide detailed instructions to whoever is taking care of your pet. Give details of your pet's daily routine and schedule and make sure the pet sitter has access to all necessary supplies such as food, a leash and medication. Remember to provide emergency contact information for yourself, partner (if applicable) and veterinarian.
• Prepare your pet. Ensure your pet is up to date with vaccinations and has all of their favourite toys and food to make them feel more comfortable when you go away. Both you and the pet may feel anxiety when you leave and are away from each other, especially if this is the first time. Before your trip, spend quality time with them and reassure them that you will be back soon.
• Prepare yourself. You can't check in every 15 minutes. If there's a problem, they will let you know.
• Token of Appreciation. If a friend or family member is doing the sitting, get them a gift; it's a nice gesture. You don't have to do this only if they also have pets which you sometimes sit.

• Be serious. It is a huge responsibility to watch someone's pet. It's like watching their child. Don't do it if you can't give it the attention it requires.
• Set calendar. Know when you have to feed it or walk it. If you've fed it, mark it off so you or someone else don't feed it twice.
• Get place ready. Pet proof the place and put away everything that could be a problem for the pet. Make sure you have sufficient food before the owner leaves the pet with you.
• Emergency numbers. If there is an emergency know who you should call and where they are.
• Provide updates. Sending regular updates will relax the owner greatly.

• Getting ready to leave
• Travel with pets