Hiring A Professional Pet Sitter
July 2010- According to the newest American Express Spending & Saving Tracker, 51
percent of affluent and young professionals interviewed are planning a summer vacation
this year. While the majority of those surveyed said they would travel domestically (89
percent), others are planning to travel to classic European destinations (London, Rome,
Paris and Athens). Although you may be excited about your summer plans, don’t forget
your pooch.
Pet Trend and Lifestyle Expert Charlotte Reed suggests hiring a professional pet sitter
to care for your dog while traveling for pleasure. “Although last year, more pet owners
were traveling with pets in tow by renting pet-friendly homes or by staying at dog-
friendly hotels, this summer more dog owners are leaving their dogs behind at home.
This summer, your dog can be comfortable at home because his pet sitter can provide
his regular routine of diet and exercise. With this in-home pet care solution, you will no
longer have to rely on family, friends or neighbors to take care of your baby while you
are on vacation,” says Reed.
In order to find the best pet sitter for you and your pet, Charlotte provides pet owners
with these pet care tips:
1. To find a pet professional pet sitter to care for your dog, contact your veterinarian, the National Association
of Professional Pet Sitters, or Pet Sitter International
2. Your pet sitter should be trained in animal handling skills and first aid and be willing to care for your
pet your way.
3. When interviewing a pet sitter, always confirm that she has a contingency plan, should she become ill, have
a situation which prohibits her from caring for your pet, or should you not return home
when expected.
4. Confirm that the animal professional is bonded, insured, and has at least three references.
5. Introduce your pet sitter to appropriate neighbors and building staff and review all local health ordinances,
building, or community regulations.
6. Leave your pet nanny detailed instructions regarding the care of your dog.
7. Put out all appropriate supplies, equipment for your pet sitter, and a small sum of money for emergencies.
8. Ask your sitter to leave a daily log of your dog’s activities.
9. Should the pet professional perform additional services, thank her for fulfilling your request, and pay
additional monies for her time.
10. Always pay your pet sitter in a timely manner.
11. Tipping your pet sitter 15 to 20 percent per visit is recommended.
About Charlotte Reed
Charlotte Reed is a popular pet care and lifestyle expert. In 1995, she abandoned life
on Wall Street as a corporate lawyer to open Two Dogs & A Goat Incorporated, a
premiere, full-service, pet care provider in New York City. She is the author of "The
Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette" (Adams Media). Charlotte is
PeoplePets.com’s Petiquette columnist and the Money Saving Pet Tips blogger for
AllYou.com. Reed is also the Editor-in-Chief of the tony, new dog magazine, "The Blue
Book." In addition to her writing career, Reed also works as a pet industry consultant.
Although many manufacturers have hired her as a spokesperson, she also works with
advertising, marketing, public relations, event and social media firms as a pet trend
expert, providing a unique understanding of what drives pet consumer behavior.
Charlotte is the owner of four dogs, two cats and one parrot.
Press Inquiries Contact:
Eunice Farnsworth
212-631-5878
EuniceFarnsworthPR@gmail.com
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