How to Provide Holiday Petsitting

During the holidays, there are a lot of opportunities for a
Petsitter to work. People go out of town to visit exotic places
or faraway family and friends. During their absence, they want
their cats to be comfortable.

While an overnight trip may not provide much opportunity for the
Petsitter, the weekend or weeklong visits to those at a distance
can provide you with the opportunity to help by providing your
services.

The biggest drawback for Petsitters at this time of year is that
they cannot do the same thing — go visit faraway family and
friends. However; if your family is close, you can visit the
animals left home alone and also your family and friends. And
make a little money at the same time.

Remember that pets get into trouble around the holidays: tinsel,
snow spray, cold weather, parked cars, holiday plants; can all
present irresistable temptations to them. Especially with no one
around to tell them “no” to control their behaviors or their
access to these items. As the Petsitter, you need to be extra
vigilant in your visits, and prepared for the worst. Nothing
would be more heartbreaking than for an owner to come home to a
seriously injured or ill pet because the Petsitter did not come
as promised — or did not notice the developing problem.

Don’t be afraid to remove the offending items from the animal’s
reach. Or, failing that, remove the animal from the threat.
Whatever works to keep the animals safe, sound and cared for is
what you need to do. Be prepared with carrier, treats and some
homeopathic treatments to calm and soothe the animal. Be sure
you have the vet’s phone number and address, and know the most
direct route from your charge’s home.

Also, be sure your insurance is up to date. Your clients will be
glad to have you watch their homes during this crime-prone time
of year. An empty home is a target for burglars, but your
presence will be noticed. And the animals will be safer for it,
too! Think of the unwary burglar meeting Fido or Fluffy and the
animal coming to harm because of it. Not a pretty picture. By
your continued, and erratic, presence, you can prevent a
burglary and protect your charges. Remember to stagger your
visits and not show up at the same time every day. This will
really help you and your clients.

Perhaps you can add this to your Petsitting resume? Why not!
Every positive experience your clients have with you builds your
reputation in the area as a dependable, qualified Petsitter. You
might even get into the “Grand Paw” or “Grand Meow” categories,
as the master Petsitter in your area!