Pets and the Holidays

How do you decide what to do with the dog for the holidays? Everyone is trying to save money this year. When you can't take the dogs and cats with you and you must travel for the holiday our neighborhood has good pet care options. There are dog boarding establishments and dog sitters galore. My recommendation is to use dog sitter as the first option.

I have done dog sits for Park Slope/Windsor Terrace/Prospect Hghts clients for many years. So here are a few tips for the holidays.

1. Don't leave a dog alone overnight and just hire a walker for three walks. It freaks the dog out to have no humans in the house overnight.
2. Get references for the dog sitter and call them.
3. A good sitter strives to keep the dog in his regular schedule, taking him to the same places you do and feeding him at the same times.
4. A good dog sitter does not bring friends to your house, look through your stuff, use your washer and dryer or leave your doors unlocked out of carelessness. They also don't bother your neighbors or leave your home messy.
5. A good sitter knows who your vet is and how to reach you at all times.
6. A good sitter gives you a free visit to meet your dog and learn about her long before you go away. Ideally during this visit the sitter takes your dog for a short walk to prove to the dog tha the sitter will always bring him back home.
7. A good sitter asks who your dog's friends are and if they have dog enemies, street fears, peculiar household habits or healthcare concerns.
8 A good sitter emails or texts you during the visit with dog updates.
9. A good sitter charges around $75 daily and this should include all walks, care and staying overnight all night.
10. A good sitter behaves like a guest in your home. They don't charge extra for watering plants or bringing in mail. The day rate should include all pets in the house.

Everyone have a great holiday. Don't wait until the last minute to find a sitter. PM me for recommendations.