No one likes to leave behind a beloved family member when they are away from home. For what seemed like “forever’, the only choice pet owners had to care for their animals during a vacation was a boarding kennel or cattery. Now, you’ll find professional pet sitters available to provide care and companionship while you’re away.
What’s the Difference Between Boarding and Pet Sitting
There are several distinct differences between professional pet sitting and a boarding kennel. The differences that matter most are the effect they have on your pet and you.
Routine
We all get a bit cranky when our daily routine is thrown out of whack. Animals are no different. A pet sitter will provide feeding, exercise and bathroom breaks on the schedule you have established for your pet. At a kennel these needs are met on the staff’s schedule.
Reduce Stress
Keeping a regular schedule and same diet is especially important for any pet, especially a puppy or kitten.
Same Environment
Staying in your pet’s familiar home environment will also reduce any stress on your pet during your absence. And who doesn’t prefer sleeping in his or her own bed – or couch, as your dog prefers?
Personal Attention
Even the best-staffed boarding kennels cannot deliver the same one-on-one attention as a professional pet sitter provides to your dog or cat. A pet sitter is also better equipped to handle special needs. At TLC House & Pet Sitting we are also available to stay with your pet through the night.
Multiple Pets
According to statistics from the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association, half of all pet owners live with both cats and dogs in their homes. Throw in fish and birds and reptiles and you have a menagerie that no boarding facility can handle.
Diseases
The close living quarters of a kennel promotes the spread of contagious diseases (e.g., think Kennel Cough). You may not want to expose your pet, especially vulnerable young animals, to these conditions. Or you may not want to give your dog the vaccinations that some facilities require.
Communication
There is no substitute for peace of mind when you are away from your pet. At TLC House & Pet Sitting, lines of communication are always open to your pet sitter with voicemail, texting and daily notes.
Other Services
During a home visit a pet sitter can gather mail, water plants and generally keep your house looking “lived-in” while you are away.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.