When you go on vacation, does your pet go along for the ride? Or do you need to hire a pet sitter or place the pet in a kennel?
Finding the right person or business to care for your pet is a lot like hiring a contractor to repair or remodel your home. And making sure your pet has a safe place to stay or a trusted sitter can help you relax and enjoy your own vacation.
Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises pet owners to do their homework before they make a decision. After all, if you are using a sitter, that person will have access to your home.
Think about what your pet needs. Will the pet be fine with someone who stops by once or twice a day? Besides food and water, what else does your pet need? Medication? Daily walks? Play time? Litter box cleaning? Do you have enough supplies on hand to provide for your pet's needs?
Friends or your veterinarian may have the names of trusted sitters or kennels. Ask the sitter or kennel for the names and contact information of previous customers. Call these references to ask them how often they have used that sitter, whether they were satisfied and how their pets were when they returned from their travels.
If the pet-sitting service or kennel is a business, check the company's BBB Business Review at midmobbb.org. The review includes a rating from A+ to F, lists any complaints and explains how they were resolved; it may also include reviews from previous customers.
Meet with potential sitters or visit the kennel before you make a decision. Introduce the sitter to your pet and observe their interaction. If you go to the kennel, inspect the facilities for cleanliness and ask how they will meet your pet's needs. Bring a list of those needs and ask how they will be met. How will they handle emergencies?
If the sitter is coming to your home, ask if he or she is bonded. Make sure valuables and sensitive papers are stored out of sight and preferably under lock and key.
Once you choose a sitter or kennel, get an agreement in writing for how your pet will be cared for and have the sitter or kennel sign it. Most businesses will have their own contracts. Make sure you read and understand any contract before you sign it. Discuss payment terms and pay with a credit card in case you need to challenge the charge.
For more BBB tips on consumer issues or to check out a company or charity, go to midmobbb.org or call 573-886-8965.
Sean Spence is the Mid-Missouri regional director for Better Business Bureau.