Finding Competent Pet Sitters

Get recommendations from friends, veterinarians or local animal welfare groups.

The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (800) 296-7387
and Pet Sitters International at http://www.petsit.com each maintain a list
of pet sitters who have passed their accreditation courses and follow
their code of ethics.

Ask what training the pet sitter has received.

Find out if the sitter has liability insurance to protect against
damage due to accidents or negligence, and is bonded to insure
against theft.

Learn about the pet sitter's backup plan if weather, illness or
emergency keeps him or her from caring for your animal.

Is the pet sitter willing to come to your home while you're still
there to meet your animals and see where you keep supplies?

How will the pet sitter make sure you've returned home?

Before going away

Make reservations well in advance.

Make sure the house key you give the sitter actually works.

Make sure your pet has current ID tags.

Leave detailed instructions, including how to reach you or your
veterinarian in an emergency.

Leave a key with a trusted neighbor as backup.

Show your pet sitter the circuit breaker and how to work your
security system.

Source: Humane Society of the United States

Compiled by Elaine Rose

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/lifestyle/052304M23PETSITTERSI
DEBAR.cfm

Posted on SHARE Yahoo group May 27, 2004