Monday, September 13, 2010

A few ways pet parents can help their pet sitter…

Last night I was up until after midnight, waiting for word that my clients returned home from their vacation. I was fairly confident they made it home, safe and sound. I imagined they were probably exhausted and just wanted to kiss their babies hello, and crawl into bed. But I didn’t know for sure. So I finally went to sleep a little worried… This morning there was an email saying they had gotten home later than they expected, but they were back and all was well. Such a relief!!

Things happen, flights get delayed, or cancelled. Cars break down, and there can be serious traffic jams on the way home. Pet parents are delayed getting home by a few hours, or much longer. In which case, I would happily to take care of the pets until their parents finally return. People are usually very good about contacting me if they are delayed, which I really appreciate! It gives me a heads up on what’s going on with them, and if I need to alter my plans. So if you’re delayed please let your pet sitter know as soon as possible. They will love you for it!

Most of the time, pet parents contact me, as soon as possible, when they get home. However, there have been a very few occasions when they forgot. It’s totally understandable, but I still worry. Please, do your pet sitter a big favor and try to always remember to let them know when you get home. BTW, that means when you are actually there, not just “back in town.” Our job isn’t complete until we know you are really at home. We pet sitters thank you so much for this!!

There are a few more things that would help to make your pet sitter’s life a little easier while you’re away. After all, a happy pet sitter makes for happier pets too…

Please make sure there is enough food, treats, medicines, kitty litter, etc., to last for the entire time you will be away. Your pet sitter really might not have the time to “run by the store.”

If there are any changes in your pet’s diet, medicines, health, routine, etc., please let your pet sitter know and leave written instructions. The same goes for household changes too. Also, if you happen to change the locks, don’t forget to provide us with a new key!

Always try to leave a landline contact number to wherever you will be staying, so we can reach you in case of an emergency. Cell phones don’t always work and, if your pet has an emergency, we may need to reach you immediately. Pet sitters try not to bother their clients, but if we have a question that really needs addressing, we usually need the answer then.

If you’re expecting anyone to be in your home, or on your property, while you’re away (housekeepers, groundskeepers, family members, roommates, etc.), please let your pet sitter know. It’s very scary to find someone you don’t know or expect, in the house when you arrive, or for him or her to walk in while you’re there! Part of our job is to care for your home and property. So it really helps to know who should, and shouldn’t, be there.

I thank you, on behalf of pet sitters everywhere, for remembering to help us out by doing these things!!

No comments:

Post a Comment