Who's Minding the Kids?
What to Look for in a Pet Sitter

By Elisa J. Kamens

If you celebrate your pet's birthday, greet your pet before your spouse when you return home, have a photo of your pet on display, or have even cooked for your pet, you are not alone. A recent survey by the American Animal Hospital Association reports that well over half of all pet owners - in many cases 60% and higher - treat their animals with the kind of love and devotion these behaviors would indicate. Indeed, pet owners are taking better care of their pets than ever. But surprisingly, many of these same animal lovers are unaware of the benefits of in-home pet sitting services.

The enormous growth of the pet sitting profession - Pet Sitters International (PSI) now boasts more than 4,600 members worldwide - illustrates the widespread demand for qualified pet sitters. When you travel or are away from home for extended periods of time, to whom would you be willing to trust the care of your animal? If you decide pet sitting is for you, will you know what to look for when choosing a pet sitter? Cost and availability are obvious areas of consideration, but here are some other important factors to keep in mind:

Dependability builds trust. Sure, you can spend less money to hire the kid down the street to walk your dog while you're at work, but will he make your pet his number-one priority?

Responsiveness is key. When you're "shopping" for a pet sitter, be mindful of the person who is most prompt in returning your phone calls. And, when you do speak with your prospective pet sitters, pay close attention to who among them is the best listener.

Plan for the unexpected. Emergencies happen. If your pet sitter is temporarily and/or unexpectedly unavailable, be sure he/she has an appropriate back-up plan in place.

Education and training should be an ongoing commitment. Almost anyone can walk and feed a dog. But the most qualified pet sitters are those individuals who are well versed in all areas of animal care (training, behavior, health, etc.) The most valuable pet sitter is the individual who keeps current on all pertinent issues regarding the health and well-being of your animal, and who maintains open lines of communication with your veterinarian.

There are numerous advantages to hiring a pet sitter, none the least of which include security and peace of mind. In today's hectic world, the dizzying pace of everyday life impacts animals as well as humans. According to a 2001 report by PSI, pets are "happiest and less stressed at home, where they are surrounded by familiar sights, sounds and smells." Keeping your pet in it's home environment during the workday, overnight or during out-of-town travel minimizes exposure to illness, fleas and other health hazards. This can also relieve you of the added burden of transporting your pet and interrupting it's regular routine. Pet sitters also offer the added advantage of home security (i.e., bringing in the mail, opening and closing draperies, and keeping a keen eye on your house) for pet owners who are traveling or away on business. In some cases, your petsitter may provide doggie daycare, or boarding, which can greatly enhance socialization skills.

Growing popularity and interest in the pet sitting business is good news for pet sitters and pet owners. When choosing a pet sitter, be on the lookout for team players - pet sitters who are willing to share with fellow professionals ideas, information and strategies about the best way to care for pets, including yours.

Each animal is an individual and has different needs and challenges. Look for a petsitter that will offer a comprehensive program that incorporates a convenient and healthy lifestyle for you and your animal.

Ultimately, all pet sitters share the same goal: to elevate the profession to greater levels for the benefit of all pet owners and their beloved animals. Still, no one is a better judge of your pet's needs than you. With a little extra time and attention, you can feel secure in your choice of a pet sitter, one that is right for you!