Submitted by Janet McCann, founder and operator of Pet Sitters Inc.

Planning a vacation is an exciting time. Have you thought to make arrangements for the dog? Considering your options before making a decision will help you choose what is best for your pet.

Take your dog to a kennel. A kennel provides a safe place with dog runs and/or cage options. Your pet will be by itself on a hard surface.

Schedule someone to come to your house, feed your dog and let him out daily. Be aware that your dog will likely be alone for 21 to 23 hours a day. If your dog can last 15 to 18 hours a night without having an accident and is not stressed out by being left alone, this option might be for you. When scheduling someone to come to your house, make sure you set times and establish how long they will stay. Find someone you can trust being in your home and that will show up as scheduled. Know prices ahead of time. Make sure they are bonded and come with references.

Find someone to stay in your house with your pet. Though many people think this is the best option, remember that dogs are pattern animals. They think you belong in your home. Dogs spend most of the time watching the door and waiting for you to return. They may have stress reactions to your absence even though someone else is there. Ask the person watching your dog if he/she will be willing to clean up any stress-related accidents your pet might have. Ask how much of the day he/she will be at the house with your pet. Have the pet sitter come over, visit with your dog and ask any questions prior to your trip.

Have a pet sitter watch your dog at his/her house. Dogs do well with this type of care. Unlike at your house, you don’t belong there. They do not keep looking for you. They attach themselves to the sitter and adjust to a new routine. Before selecting this type of care, make sure to find out:

• If the person is licensed by the Department of Agriculture. By state mandate, these caretakers must be licensed and follow certain regulations. For example, sitters cannot block dogs off into different areas and keep them separated.
• How long the sitter or service has been in business. Do you feel that the person you speak to has knowledge and understanding of dogs, breeds, behavior and has a passion for pets? Do you like the specific sitter? Does he/she ask to interview you and want to know about your dog’s personality, health and lifestyle? Are you encouraged to take your dog to visit first?
• What would happen to your pet if the sitter becomes sick or injured? Know who would care for your dog and who would be aware your dog was in the house. Ask if the sitter provides an identification tag and a way to recover your pet if he gets loose. Your tag will do no good, as your pet will not be at the listed address.

This type of service should be the top level of care for your loved pet. Do not accept less.

If you do your homework and examine all your options, you can enjoy your vacation and not have to worry about your special companion. Call and check on him, and expect some cute stories about your pet when you return.

Pet Sitters Inc. places your pet (dogs or indoor-only cats) in a carefully selected home. Pet Sitters is celebrating its 30th year in business. It has been a member of the Better Business Bureau for almost 20 years and has never had a complaint.

As of June 22, 2011, this service provider was highly rated on Angie’s List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check AngiesList.com for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie’s List.