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Whether you’re going on vacation or you need to leave the city for work, finding someone to take care of your pet is always a bit stressful. You love your pet more than anything, so you want whoever looks after them to care for them just as good as you do. How do you know who to trust with this kind of responsibility? Luckily, there are some key things to look for in an overnight pet sitter so you can rest easy when you have to be away from your beloved furry friend.

 Decide Between Boarding Services and In-Home Care

 There are many different types of pet sitting situations to choose from. You can put your dog in an affordable kennel, splurge for a luxury boarding facility, or find someone to stay overnight in your own home with your pet. Boarding facilities often provide services such as grooming, cage-free playtime and may even use webcams so you can watch your pet while you’re away. However, some pets may get distressed in an unfamiliar environment without you around. Also, this might not work if your dog doesn’t get along well with other pets.

In-house sitters allow your pet to follow their familiar routine and be comfortable in their own space. However, if you go this route, you’ll want to make sure your sitter is licensed, insured, and bonded. This will protect you from accidents in your home, theft, and ensure your sitter has the appropriate knowledge to care for your pet.

Look for Someone Who is Experienced

Your best friend or a close family member might sound like the cheapest and most convenient pet sitter. However, this may not be a good idea if they have no experience with pet care. This is especially true if you have a large, dominant dog or a flighty pet that likes to run away.

Instead, look for professional pet sitters. They’re more likely to stick to your pet’s schedule and take responsibility for their care. Find out what kinds of animals or breeds they typically take care of and if they have any training in pet behavior modification or pet first aid. 

It’s also advisable to ask the sitter for a list of references so you can contact them. Talk to your neighbors, friends, and even your vet about which professional pet sitters they can recommend. 

Get Familiar with Your Sitter

Before you choose a pet sitter, make sure you know that they’re a good fit. If you’re considering a boarding business, be sure to ask about their staff and meet with anyone in person who will be directly caring for your pet. According to The Dodo, it’s also important that your pet meets their sitter beforehand so you can see how they interact. Find out how much time the sitter can spend with your pet. If your pet isn’t used to being left alone, you may need to choose a sitter with greater availability.

Keep Track of Your Pet With GPS

Top-rated GPS dog trackers are a great way to monitor your pets while you’re away from home. These can give you peace of mind and even help your pet sitters find your pet should they get away. You’ll be able to monitor your pet’s location from your smartphone, so you always know they’re safe. 

Putting care into finding the right sitter for your pet is an important part of booking your vacation. Though it can seem like a hassle, taking the time to meet and interview various sitters will ensure your pet is in good hands. That way, you can enjoy your trip to its full extent without worrying about them.

by Guest Writer, Brandon Butler