What to look for in a responsible pet sitter or facility

Choosing a pet sitter can be intimidating and filled with uncertainty. We hope friends or family can help out because we trust them most, but often we don't have that option so we turn to hiring a pet sitter or boarding facilities. Our pets are our most cherished 'possessions' of course! I am personally not a fan of the dog daycare situation in Winnipeg. There are often far too many dogs, too little staff, and very loose care standards. The cat facilities are much fewer and far between in Winnipeg but listed below are some things you should be looking for and asking about before leaving your cat in their care.

When searching for someone to entrust your cat with, the following details and questions are important to pay attention to.

• Is the pet sitter presentable and personable? Do they ask questions or do they seem hesitant, distracted or disinterested in learning about your specific pet? Do they welcome detailed notes from you? Do they admit when they are not experienced in an area?

• Is there overnight care in a facility? If not, who checks on the cats overnight, what are the plans if something happens? How are things like crime (broken windows, theft), fire or medical monitored?

• Is the boarding facility clean/smell ok? Is it loud? Are cats completely separated from dogs or other cats? Is staff turn over high? High staff turn over can indicate problems with management or inexperienced staff.

• What experience does the sitter or owner have besides liking cats? A qualified, experienced person makes all the difference when it comes to recognizing and managing early signs of stress, illness or preventing injuries.

• Is there a plan to manage behavior if the cat does not do well in boarding or will you be called to pick up? What experience does the sitter have if the cat does not react well? Not all cats board well or show signs right away.

• Is the facility or pet sitter insured for accidents or personal liability?

• What kind of interaction will your pet get either during drop in visits in their home, or at a boarding facility? Cats are nocturnal creatures and spend most of the afternoon snoozing. They are most active in the evening, and any cat owner knows the 3am zoomies. Cat should get at least 30-60 minutes PER DAY of interactive playtime or stimulation and its recommended it's broken up over short periods of time. If getting in-home drop in services, bare minimum once a day visits for your cat are necessary. Cats cannot go more than 24 hours without water or the consequences can quickly become fatal. Under stimulated cats may become depressed or destructive. Litter box and eating habits should be monitored. This is especially important for male cats as urinary blockages are very painful and serious. Signs are easily missed.

• Does the facility or pet sitter offer daily behavior reports, photos or live streaming? Any good sitter should provide this as part of their duties to show accountability and keep you informed.

• What emergency plan does the facility or sitter have in the event of a medical emergency or accident for your pet?

• What sanitization happens between boarding pets? Does the facility require pets to be up to date on vaccinations?

• Read the reviews, both good and bad. All businesses get negative reviews eventually (can't please everyone!), however check them for allegations of clear negligence or abuse. If the reviews say the sitter didn't stay for the agreed upon time, or the animal was injured by other animals or staff, AVOID! Human error happens, however almost everything can be prevented with the right experience and precautions.

It can be scary hiring someone to look after your cat while you are away and not easily accessible. Its important to find someone you are comfortable with and who will communicate with you as expected.