Vacation Time Approaching. Make Your Reservations!

Are you taking a summer vacation? Have you booked care for Fluffy and Puffy and LeRoy? Pet sitters book up solid during the busy summer months. You may have already waited too long to book the sitter of your choice. Here are some hints to help you find a cat sitter, even at this late date.

1. If you have a regular pet sitter call now! Many pet sitters reserve their busiest times for established clients only. If they have room, they will give your booking precedence.

2. Is your pet sitter booked? Ask if they have a waiting list and get your name on it in case there are cancellations. Then go directly to number 3.

3. If you don't have a regular pet sitter or your pet sitter is booked begin searching NOW! You can find recommendations from vets, friends or online. Your local pet store may have a bulletin board that will have flyers and business cards. Call as soon as possible. Call more than one. If the pet sitter is booked ask to be added to their waiting list.

4. If the pet sitter you contact is booked solid ask if they have any suggestions of pet sitters who serve your area. Many pet sitters network with other pet sitters and may have a trusted associate to which they refer business.

5. Consider a pet sitter who is relatively new to the business. They are more likely to have space available. If their pet sitting references are few, ask for personal references. Are they bonded and insured? That is one indication that they take their business seriously.

6. Book an interview with the prospective pet sitter. This will be the best indicator or whether you've found the best pet sitter for you. Make a list of questions and make sure they are answered to your satisfaction. Note what questions the pet sitter asks you. Are they thorough? Do they have a strong understanding of what is needed? Do they write things down? If you have any reasonable reservations (other than the normal reservations we all have when leaving our pets in someone else's care) do not book them and continue looking.