sitter series

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, there are those times when you can't get your furry friend into a boarding facility. If you're lucky enough to have trustworthy neighbors or family members who can come feed and care for your animal, then there are a few things you'll want to make sure you do before you jet off on your vacay, to ensure your pet (and sitter) remain as comfortable in your home as possible.

• Close off any areas of your home that you don't want your pets accessing. Since just shutting doors might not be enough if your sitter forgets to close them up again, putting up pet gates can ensure that if your pets aren't allowed in, they won't get in.
• Make sure your outside accessing doors are locked, as well as your pet doors. You don't want your pets roaming around outside with no one home to watch over them.
• Don't leave your house keys for the sitter in a "hidden" spot outside your home. If possible, meet up with her ahead of time, not only to exchange keys, but also to go over all the details of your pet's routine and to show her around your place so she gets the lay of the land.

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Along with considerations to keep pets fed and comfy in your absence, don't forget the logistics! I love this Petsitter Pad ($10) because it reminds me to mention the little things (like where I like my pooch walked) along with space for the essentials like contact info for myself, the vet, and an emergency facility.

In addition to those things listed on the pad, what's your key information that you never leave home without noting?

Along with bathroom breaks after the fact, availability of fresh food and water are two essential reasons to have someone come take care of a pet when you're away. Whether your creature eats on the clock or 'round the clock, here are some tips to leave the meal plan in place.

• Make sure your pet's food is fully stocked, and ready to scoop. If you use bagged food, let your sitter know which scoop you use to prevent over (or under) feeding. It's also a good idea to let the sitter know where any extra food bags (or extra cans, if you use canned food) are located even though you think you've stocked enough up front.
• If your pet eats home cooked meals, make the food beforehand and separate into labeled, meal-sized portions to prevent any confusion, and to take that division duty off your sitter's hands.

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I'd rather bring North to a doggie hotel when I take vacations, but others prefer having people come over to watch furry friends instead of shipping the animals away, especially with super-sensitive cats. Some petsitters will also opt to watch your animals in their home environment, not yours, but either way, it's time to do your homework!

Always ask for referrals and references, both from other clients or to find recommendations from trusted sources. Then take note of these key questions and tips when choosing.