Preventative Care@3x

Leave it to the Pros

Mar 19, 2013 | Arizona Pet Health

Whether its overnight or for an extended vacation, finding the right sitter to take care of your pet can be a daunting task. On the heels of Professional Pet Sitters week, we would like to look at the advantages of using a professional and find out how to locate an expert to meet your pet sitting needs.
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When your pet is allowed to remain in his regular environment, he will spend his days surrounded by the same sounds, smells, and routines that he is used to. Having the comforts of home, from the same place to sleep to the same yard to play in can make an enormous difference to your pet and make your absence less traumatic. When you use a professional pet sitter, they will be spending one-on-one time with your pet—as opposed to a group care setting where a caretaker’s attention is divided between multiple pets. In addition, your home will be a less likely target for break-ins with a trusted caretaker coming and going, keeping a watchful eye on your pet’s environment.

Using a professional sitter ensures that your pet will receive a high level of care. From special tasks like grooming and administering medication to everyday details like walking and feeding, a professional can handle it all. They know how to deal with the reluctant eater, the destructive protestor, and the anxious barker and can redirect those behaviors in a positive direction. In addition, sitters are often trained to handle medical emergencies and natural disasters, providing first aid, CPR, or seeking emergency veterinary care as necessary.

Several major pet sitting organizations can help you locate a sitter in your area, including the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, Pet Sitters International, and Arizona Professional Pet Sitters & Associates. These organizations provide their members with a full spectrum of resources, including education and certification courses. Sitters belonging to professional organizations are often insured and bonded as well as subject to criminal background checks, giving you additional assurance about leaving your home and pet in good hands. When you engage a professional certified pet sitter, you can be confident that they are trained in caring for a range of animals and are able to provide you and your pet with the best possible experience.

Links:
http://www.petsitters.org/benefits_of_using_a_pet_sitter.php
http://www.petsit.com/finding-the-right-pet-sitter
http://appsa.net/index.php

Disclaimer: Not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.