A family vacation is something to look forward to. However, there are some places you just can’t take your dog, and if that’s the case, you will need to make arrangements for their pet care. Friends and family can’t always be relied on and some dogs just don’t settle in a boarding kennel. If your dog falls into one of these categories, a pet sitter may be the best solution.
What is a Pet Sitter
A pet sitter is someone who is paid to visit your dog or pets at least once daily. If you are on a trip, usually three visits or more are recommended. A pet sitter will play with your pets, feed them and make sure they are okay. Pet Sitters are professionals whose job is to ensure your dog is healthy and happy while you’re away.
Advantages to Hiring a Pet Sitter
Your dog can stay in familiar surroundings, and not have to put up with the sounds and smells of a boarding kennel.
You can be confident your dog will be fed what you want him to eat. This is particularly important if your dog has food sensitivities.
Dogs are creatures of habit. A pet sitter will fit in with your dog’s regular schedule so his routine isn’t disrupted too much. Does he have his regular walk at 2pm? A pet sitter can arrange to walk him at that time each day.
Your dog will receive one on one attention during the pet sitter’s visits, because he is the only dog she will be taking care of at that time.
Your dog is much less likely to be exposed to infectious disease. No matter how well vaccinated your dog is, and no matter how clean a boarding kennel, there is still the risk of your dog catching a respiratory infection. That won’t happen if you use a pet sitter.
A pet sitter wil be able to collect your mail, water your plants and take the trash can out when it’s garbage pickup day. These extra services can also give the impression that someone is at home, which may help prevent a break in.
How do I Choose a Pet Sitter?
You can find a professional pet sitter online, through Google Business Listings, National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), or Pet Sitters International. Always ask for references, and make sure that your pet sitter is bonded and insured.
Questions to ask a Pet Sitter
What services are included in the daily fee?
Will they collect mail and water plants while they are tending to your dog?
What will they do with your dog while they are there – play ball, take him for a walk, perhaps even groom him?
Does the pet sitter have a vet release form? It’s a great idea just in case there is a need for them to seek treatment from your veterinarian while you are away.
By hiring a pet sitter, your dog can relax at home while you enjoy your vacation. That’s a win-win situation for both you and your dog.
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To run free and rule the world while getting endless belly-rubs from my humans.
Favorite Activity:
Chasing a ball, long walks off-leash whenever possible, splashing around in the waves at local beaches and at Eagle Pond, mid-morning and afternoon naps and barking (I like to be heard!)
Favorite Food:
I love peanut butter, bananas, tuna, Cape Cod potato chips (don’t tell CapeK9Cardio), big bones and butter.
Did You Know?
I’ve been told I have a funny dark spot on my tongue, sort of a birthmark; I will growl when you try to disturb my sleep (let sleeping dogs lie!); I hate baths, but I’m fearless when it comes to swimming at the beach. I can even retrieve an underwater ball.
When did you become part of your pack?
I came straight from the farm in Wisconsin from my birth mom in 2002.
Pet Sitting in Cotuit, MA
Bandit loves to hang with a pack. He will play ball endlessly and is very competitive. Bandit loves his Dog Walks with CapeK9Cardio. He’s been one of our favorite clients for about two years now, and is always a pleasure to care for. Congratulations Bandit, you are CapeK9Cardio’s Cape Cod Dog of the Month!
Your favorite moment or story?
Bandit often thinks the snow, especially the first snow of the season, is a blanket, so he likes to burrow his nose under the surface and snoot around for toys (and mice!)…like Max, the Grinch’s dog”
Happy Dog Owner – Richard
My basic attitude in life is “Count me in”. I’m very enthusiastic about playing ball, riding in the car (even with the top down), doing a few tricks & high 5’s, and “shopping” at Petco. I also enjoy sleeping, snoring, and eating.
Siblings:
Story
Goals:
Eating: speed and volume of consumption. Family: be around them always.
Favorite Activity:
Digging in my toybox, and once I pick a toy, having someone to play with.
Favorite Food:
Everything is good.
Did You Know?
My dad won Best of Breed at Westminister. I am named after Bonzo, a character of British comics and toys of the 1920’s-30’s, the Snoopy of the time, always getting into trouble with stories based on his antics and pals.
When did you become part of your pack?
When I joined my family: at 8 weeks old, I was from Phenix Bulldogs in Jacksonville Fl. My human dad used to judge and breed bullies like me, so he knew one of the best and kindest breeders who owned my mommy and siblings. My older sister, Story, is a tiny toy poodle at 4 pounds, and getting older at age 12, but she is tolerant of me, and I am gentle with her.
Your favorite moment or story?
Well, that’s tough: either floating on a raft in the pool, or playing on the beach. I’m looking forward to my first snowfall, as my human family just moved to Cape Cod from Florida this past spring. And all us Bullies love the cold.”
Bonzo
New Clients: we will be away March 5th - 15th. If you Contact Us or leave a message 877-592-2734 for new service, we will get back to you as soon as possible. If you already have a reservation, don't worry, our employees will ensure you receive uninterrupted service.
