Pets are special members of many households. Companion animals serve important functions, such as watching homes or acting as service animals to individuals who may need a helping hand, and the love pets offer is unconditional.
Many pet owners will go to great lengths to ensure their pets’ comfort and well-being. According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association, pet owners in the United States spent around $69.51 billion on their pets in 2017, while estimates suggest that pet owners spent close to $75 billion in 2019.
Though the bulk of pet spending involves food and veterinary care, pet owners also spend significant amounts of money to pamper their pets. One such investment in quality of life includes providing care using pet sitters for animals when owners are away from home.
Pet sitters are valuable for many reasons. Explore these benefits for both the pet and the family.
Less strain and stress on the pet 
Pet sitters come to the home and care for the pet in surroundings the animal is familiar with and comfortable in. The smells, sounds and routine are what the pet knows, and the animal won’t have to acclimated itself to a new place, which can induce anxiety.
No imposition on family members or friends any times pet owners turn to family members or friends to come provide care for their pets while they’re out of town. This may require friends and relatives to rearrange their schedules. Hiring a pet sitter means not having to feel bad about asking someone to fit pet care into his or her day.
Training any pet sitters are professionals with experience identifying animal behaviors and tendencies. Such experience can be invaluable and help pets adjust quickly.
Exercise opportunities hile pet boarding facilities can provide quality care, a pet sitter can customize walks and exercise sessions according to what will most benefit the pet. If the animal is social and likes spending time with other pets, that can be arranged. Or a solitary walk can fit the bill if the pet is less social.
Additional services et sitters may perform a variety of tasks that go above or beyond simply sitting with the animal. These can include administering medicines, cleaning litter boxes and pet messes, making trips to the vet, or arranging play dates with other animals. Pet sitters also may stay in a home and provide round-the-clock care while owners are away. Other tasks requested by the pet owner also can be discussed.
Pet owners looking to provide quality care for their animals often seek out the assistance of pet sitters who can accommodate all involved. (MC)