Choosing A Pet Sitter For Your Chihuahua Dog

If you will be going on vacation or will need to leave your chihuahua dog for a long period of time, you will want to make sure that your pet is left in the care of someone you trust. If you are not able to leave your chi with a trusted family member or friend, and you don't like the idea of putting him in a kennel, your next best option would be to procure him a pet sitter.

Why should you choose a pet sitter over a dog kennel? Chihuahuas are very attached to their owners and are prone to separation anxiety. Since your pooch will already be under stress with your absence, there is no reason why you should add to it by also placing him in a whole new environment. Therefore, hiring someone to come in and take care of a chihuahua dog may be more comforting for him.

If you choose to obtain a sitter, there are a few things you need to know before you make any decisions to hire anyone. Keep the following in mind:

• You will want someone who has had experiences with chihuahuas

• Interview the person and find out their experience

• Obtain references from the potential sitter and follow up with them

• Carefully observe how the person interacts with the chihuahua dog during their visit, and how your pet responds to them.

• If your chi is on medication for a health issue, make sure the sitter doesn't haven't a problem administering medicine.

• The dog sitter, or the company who is providing an employee, should have commercial liability insurance. That way, any accidents or negligence that might occur is covered. They should also be bonded to protect yourself from possible theft.

• The pet sitter should provide a contract.

• If at any time the person you hire cannot take care of your dog, will there be someone on call who will fill in for them, and who would this individual be?

• Find out if other services are offered aside from feeding, walking and playing with your dog. For instance, will they groom your canine?

• The person you interview should also have plenty of questions for you regarding your pooch and care instructions.

In addition, once you find a pet sitter you trust for your chihuahua dog, you need to make sure your home is well stocked and you leave everything the care giver will require, such as:

• Let them know when you will be leaving in advance (especially if you will be gone during major holidays).

• Familiarize them with your dog's daily routine (I.E. feeding schedule, walks, etc.).

• Make sure your chi's collar has updated ID tags.

• Leave a number where you can be reached.

• Give them your vet's number, and notify the veterinarian office that someone will be taking care of your dog while you are away.

• Make sure all chihuahua dog food and treats your pooch will need are fully stocked.

• Let the sitter know what they are welcome and not welcome to use in your home.

• Let your neighbors know that someone will be watching your chihuahua.

• Leave a radio and an energy efficient light on for your pal when he is alone.

• Make sure any hazardous materials, objects or products are safely tucked away and kept out of your pet's reach.

If you don't know where you should begin a chihuahua dog sitter search, start with your local yellow page listings. You can also conduct your own online search and lookup the name of your city with the word "pet sitter". Also, don't forget, you can ask your vet, friends, and co-workers for suggestions.