Why use a pet sitter?

Pet ownership in the United States is continually on the rise. Currently, 63 percent of all American households have pets. The US pet population includes some 73 million dogs, 90 million cats and 16 million birds plus fish, hamsters and other animals. These pets are happiest when they're home, surrounded by familiar sights, smells and sounds.

For many years, pet owners faced a dilemma when they had to be away from home. Limited care options were available. One choice was boarding at a kennel or vet. Another was turning to family, friends, neighbors or a professional boarder. But these solutions were seldom ideal.

A new alternative - pet sitting - has changed all that.

Today, you can hire a pet sitters who will look after an animal or animals, at thier home, while their owner is away. Pet sitting has taken the anxiety out of leaving a pet behind, which is why it is one of the nation's fastest growing industries.

Pet sitters do much more than provide your pet with food and water while you're away from home. A good pet sitter also spends quality time with your pet, gives him exercise, and the attention that he craves while you are away. Pet sitters typically offer additional services, such as bringing in mail and newspapers, turning lights on and off, and providing homes with a lived-in look. Also your pet is not left in an unfamiliar place. Some of the advantages to having a pet sitter are....

• Pets are happier and less stressed in their own homes



• Diet and exercise routines are uninterrupted



• Travel trauma for owner and pet is eliminated



• Pets are not exposed to other animals that may be sick



• Friends, family and neighbors need not be bothered



• Friends and neighbors may lack proper pet-care experience and/or have even forgotten to show up
  

So what is the solution? Consider hiring a "pet sitter"—a professional, qualified individual who will care for your pet in his or her own environment where they are comfortable. You can start your search at the following web sites.

CreatureComfortsPetServices.org http://www.petsitters.org/index.cfm