An alternative option to boarding your pet is having a pet sitter come to your house or you bring your pet to a private pet sitter’s home. This is a great option for animals that require more attention and care. This may be the best for geriatric animals, animals with medical problems or “sensitive” animals where a boarding kennel would be very stressful!
Essential Information for Your Pet Sitter
Here is some important information your pet sitter should know while you are away:
Emergency Contact
Emergency Contact: Your personal phone numbers and information on where you are going and staying is critical. Also, have a backup person available for the unforeseen circumstance the pet sitter has an emergency and cannot continue to watch your animal.
Veterinary Care Coordination
Make certain the sitter is aware of the contact information for Lomsnes Veterinary Hospital. Give your veterinary clinic the heads up that you will be away and the contact information of the pet sitter. Having a discussion about what you would like medically done in an emergency beforehand can save a lot of worry if you are unreachable by phone.
Dietary Considerations
Inform your pet sitter about any food allergies your pet has. Dogs and cats with a food allergy will be on a specific diet and require strict feeding instructions. Ensure the pet sitter is well stocked with food and treats for the time you are away plus a little extra. If you have the food in a container and not in the bag, write down the brand and type of food on the lid in case the food does run out. We do not want a potential allergic reaction to occur with the wrong food.
Medication Management
Have a detailed list of medications easily laid out for the sitter. Make sure there is ample supply of medications and have them clearly marked with times and dosages. An overdose or under dose of medications can be harmful. The pet sitter must be comfortable giving the medication.
Exercise and Behavioral Guidance
If this is the first time the sitter is taking care of your pet, discuss the exercise requirement needed. If you have a high energy dog that needs a couple hours of running every day, make sure your pet sitter can give them what they need. Also, inform the pet sitter on behaviour issues that your pet has, such as, friendly with other animals, grumpy with other dogs, likes to watch the “Dog Whisperer”, etc.
Microchip Identification
If your pet has a microchip it would be a good idea to call the microchip company and provide them with the pet sitter’s information. If your pet slips away from the sitter then the contact information will be there to safely return your run-a-way pet back to the sitter.
Providing the pet sitter with appropriate information will ensure that both you and your pet’s holiday will be enjoyable!
Written by Alicia, Receptionist