Adventures in Pet Sitting - Holiday Hustle
Several of my traveling folks are on the go for the New Year holiday.
That means I'm on the go, too... which is why you haven't seen me much the last couple days.My main route - breakfast and bedtime - is about a 40 mile loop to the first house, from there to the second location, then home from there. Throw in a few regular daily visits mid-day for variety and I'm putting in an easy 90 miles a day.
The temps have steadied out in the 30's, which helps, but the wind has been an irritant. It means extra layers for the outside work, which in turn makes everything just that much harder or more awkward to do. And they're predicting a lake effect snow squall heading into rush hour this afternoon. Lake effect could mean half an inch or it could dump 4 inches in a matter of a couple of hours - depends on wind and the temps. Fingers crossed this is a mild one. A severe blast can cause white-out conditions. VERY dangerous.
Luckily, when I finally get where I'm going, I get to warm up with cuddles and kisses from all the furkids.
This is who makes all the effort worthwhile!
'The Boys' - Norman, Barney & Bubba
'The Farm Crew' - Rosie & Sophie
'G' - Ginger
I might have to get a pet sitter while I'm traveling. Got any tips for choosing a good one? I have some cats that need special feeding, not just dry food.
First and foremost - set up a 'meet and greet' appointment (normally this visit is free), give a walk-thru of the routine and see if the person is 'getting it' & asking good questions. Also see how the chemistry is between the pets & the sitter - you'll know if they're an 'animal person'. The ones that aren't, stick out like a sore thumb.
Ask if they charge by the pet or by the clock. (I use half hour visits.)
Insuring & bonding don't mean much. Insurance is for liability - in case they break something or lose a key. Bonding is to cover an employer for employee misdeeds.
Once you settle on someone, leave detailed written instructions (they should've taken notes or had a form for you, if they're really good) for feeding, meds, toys, favorite activities, and a 'don't do' list. Leave contact numbers for you and someone local in case of emergencies.
You can find local sitters thru Angie's List, Craigslist (be ultra picky), call a few nearby vets for referrals (they know competent folks), Care.com, or even the Yellow Pages. Best search terms are 'pet sitter XXXXX(zip code)'.
Oh, and ask for text or e-mail updates while you're away. Good way to keep tabs on things.
That should get you off to a good start. Best of luck!
Thanks a lot! I've always had friends and neighbors do it. But it's looking sparse for options right now. I like your idea of asking the vet. At least my cats don't need medicine. It's just that some need a "meat milkshake", so they have to be separate from the cats that eat dry food. Because everyone wants that "Catfood smoothie", lol.
what a gorgeous bunch of furbabies to visit!
Yeah! They're all sweeties, too. I'm really lucky with my clients.