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I need to find a place for 2 indoor dogs to stay for 2 weeks. Last time I hired someone to keep my dogs at my home, I was met at my driveway by my dog, keeper went out of town. Kennels tend to store dogs like freight. My dogs (a Lab and a Heinz 57) are so spoiled, it's embarassing. I'll pay well to have my pups pampered and safe while I'm gone. Haven't been on vacation for years because of this dilemma. Help! P.S. I live in Maryland, but just need ideas on how to find one.
Last edited by ESFP; 10-06-2008 at 06:39 AM..
Reason: P.S.
Have you tried your vet's office? Our local emergency center has someone on staff who house sits for my pet sitter when she is out of town. Also, Pet Sitter International should have local pet sitters who are responsible.
I would also post this under the forum for your city/state. You may get more responses than the general pet forum because it would be more specific to the area where you live.
Most boarders use a standard kennel set-up (cage or dog run) but there are "Pet Resorts", "Doggy Day Care" and pet sitters. They will be more expensive but the dogs will be pampered.
I concur with SXMGirl's suggestion to talk to local vet staff for referrals. You can also call local grooming shops. Some offer boarding or daycare themselves or have staff who do. If you have a local Petco, Petsmart or other large chain pet supply store, check with their staff. Call your local ACO and shelter and ask them for a referral. Both national petsitting organizations offer lists of affiliated pet sitters too. I've had great success finding reliable pet care using these resources.
Make a list of potential pet sitters. Interview the pet sitter/s you choose. Ask them how long they have been pet sitting, if they have pet first aid training, who their back up is in case they are sick or have a car breakdown or other emergency. Ask how long they spend at your home and what they will do while they are there. Ask what they will do in case of an emergency with one of your pets. Ask if they've ever had an emergency. Ask how many other pets they will be caring for during the same period that they will be caring for yours. Ask for references and call the references. Ask if they are insured. Tell the pet sitter you will want to call them every day to check on your pet and get their contact information so you can do so. When you narrow the list to one or two candidates, again check with local vet offices, groomers and the ACO and see if they know the person you chose. Above all, follow your gut.
Ask a neighbor to check in while you are gone. Have them watch for the pet sitter's car and note if the pet sitter arrives as scheduled and stays an appropriate time. Be sure to tell the pet sitter that a neighbor will be doing this. (It will help keep them honest) While you are away, call the pet sitter at various times, especially when they are supposed to be at your house. Keep the calls brief and professional.
If your pet sitter balks at any of the above, choose someone else. A good pet sitter should understand your concern about leaving your pet with someone new for the first time and work hard to allay your concerns and be available to you. Here are a few resources. Best of luck!
I agree with inquiring about kennels at your vet. I am lucky enough, by vet actually boards his patients.
Even the yellow book is not a bad idea....I would set aside a few hrs. and go check each one out. See if they meet your standards. Surprise visits are best!
I need to find a place for 2 indoor dogs to stay for 2 weeks. Last time I hired someone to keep my dogs at my home, I was met at my driveway by my dog, keeper went out of town. Kennels tend to store dogs like freight. My dogs (a Lab and a Heinz 57) are so spoiled, it's embarassing. I'll pay well to have my pups pampered and safe while I'm gone. Haven't been on vacation for years because of this dilemma. Help! P.S. I live in Maryland, but just need ideas on how to find one.
You might contact an all breed rescue or breed specific rescue there in Maryland and see if they have any ideas, or one of the obedience/training facilities. I don't know where you're at in MD, but if you'll DM me I'll give you a couple of contacts! They aren't boarding facilities, but these folks would know who to call.
I live on lower Eastern Shore, south of Salisbury, MD. I think I'm going with the advertised Canine Country Club. They are $20 per dog, and bathe them after 5 days. One deciding factor is they welcome drop-in inspection/tours. I'm not finished researching all of your suggestions though Thanks for these choices.
Last edited by ESFP; 10-16-2008 at 12:46 PM..
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