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Headed Out Of Town And Need To Hire A Pet Sitter?

Tampa Mobile Veterinarian, Dr. Jeanne Hart, Shares Her Tips On Finding The RIGHT Petsitter

It can be difficult to leave our furry friends when travel or other responsibilities call us away. But it can be far less stressful when we know that they are in capable and caring hands. Pet sitters offer a great option for people who want to keep their special family members cared for and comfortable, right at home.In addition to feeding and bathroom breaks, a professional sitter can provide comfort, individual attention and exercise, helping to reduce any separation anxiety that your pet may experience while you’re gone.

So what’s the best way to find a qualified sitter? Dr. Jeanne Hart from Tampa Mobile Veterinary Services tells us how to find best sitter for your pet.

  • Where to find petsitter: Start your search by asking around since your fellow dog or cat lovers may already have a recommendation. You should also check with your veterinarian or groomer as some even offer pet sitting services. Also look on Angie’s List, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (856)439-0324, or call Pet Sitters International (336) 983-9222.
  • What to look for: You want to make sure that they are licensed, bonded and insured and have experience on the training side too. Run a background check and then check their references over the phone. Be sure to interview them over phone and then again in person, with your pets.
  • What to arrange: Figure out how many visits per day you’ll need and how much time sitter spends with pets, which could really vary depending on the type of pet you have, their age and temperament. Ask if an overnight stay is an option.Other factors to discuss: how much walking and playing time, their feeding schedule, any medication needs, and the total costs involved with their service. In case of a personal emergency, does the petsitter have a back-up person for her?
  • What you need to provide them with:Leave your pet pro with the house keys, gate and alarm codes and of course your itinerary and contact info. Next, make sure that they have your pet’s current vet’s information, emergency contact phone numbers and the number of neighbor. And if you can leave a spare key with trusted neighbor, that would be great. Lastly, leave all food, medications and supplies in a central location along with any leashes, towels and toys.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute! Be sure to reserve your pet’s spot well in advance of popular travel times and holiday seasons.

“It’s so nice for pets to stay in a familiar environment rather than the stress of the kennel atmosphere.” Says Dr. Hart.“In addition to providing personalized attention, the pet sitter can stick to your pet’s normal diet and exercise routine, so his schedule won’t change as much.” Some petsitters may also be able to bring in mail, newspapers, water your plants and more.

Dr. Hart and her team bring full service pet care and customer service right to your door. Tampa Mobile Veterinary Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, in-house diagnostic testing, radiology, dentistry, surgery, hospice care and euthanasia. They see patients between Monday and Friday from 8:30-5:30. Call 813-598-8505 for appointments or visit www.tampamobilevet.com for more information.

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