Leaving your dog in the care of a pet sitter can be a daunting experience. They will be living in your home, taking care of your possessions as well as your much-loved pet. With proper preparation and introduction, you can minimise stress and ensure a smooth transition for both your dog and the pet sitter. In this article, we will discuss the importance of preparation time, the introduction process, signs of a good match, finding a reliable pet sitter and additional crucial information to consider.
Preparation time
Start preparing your dog at least two to three weeks before the pet sitter takes over. In the case where a pet has a more sensitive disposition towards strangers, add extra tea dates or walk strolls. The key is to consider your pet’s ability to cope with new people and adjust the preparation time accordingly. Additionally, getting a shirt worn by the sitter for your dog to sniff and get used to can help with the transition.
Finding a reliable pet sitter
Not everybody is trustworthy these days, especially with so many scammers doing the rounds. Therefore, it is very important to find a reliable pet sitter. Consider the following in your search for the ideal pet sitter:
- Go through a reputable pet-sitting agency like Caity Cares, which has a thorough screening process and prioritises finding the perfect match for your pets.
- If you choose not to go through an agency, conduct proper screening yourself, including reference and background checks.
- Conduct thorough interviews with potential pet sitters, discussing your dog’s needs, routines, and any concerns.
- Verify experience and certifications.
- Schedule a trial run before leaving your dog in the pet sitter’s care for an extended period.
Would you like to read the rest of this interesting article? Then get the Spring #347 edition of Animaltalk magazine from retailers or order a digital or printed copy from www.coolmags.co.za.
