Referrals
Referrals offer a good way to find someone who knows enough about exotics to care for your pet. Some ideas on where to find referrals:
- If you can find (or already belong to) a society or organization related to your type of pet (e.g. there are herp societies in many areas) this is a great place to either find someone who shares your interest in exotic pets who can pet sit for you or a recommendation for a pet sitter. Finding someone with the same kind of pet is a great option, because you know they will understand the quirks and needs of your pet.
- If you know of someone with the same kind of pet as you, ask them what they do when they must be away from home.
- If you have a vet who sees quite a few exotics, they may know of someone who offers pet sitting or has experience and would be able to properly care for your pets. If you are lucky enough, someone on your vet's staff may be willing to pet sit for you.
- If you have a trusted pet store, you can ask them if they have someone on their staff who will do pet sitting, or if they know of any pet sitters.
Check References and Trust Your Instinct
Once you have found a potential sitter, you should interview them about their experience and knowledge about your pets, and ask for and carefully check references. Trust your instincts, and if you can't find someone who really knows about your exotics, try to gauge how interested they are in learning about any special requirements. A trial visit so you can see how they interact with your pet can speak volumes about how they will care for your pet while you are away.
Detailed Care Instructions
Once you have found a pet sitter, it is a good idea to have a fairly detailed conversation about what they should do in a variety of situations. It is also very important to leave any care information (diet, cleaning, handling, etc) in writing, and make it detailed so nothing gets forgotten or overlooked. I find it helpful to start writing instructions well in advance as I usually think of a few things that need to be added even after I think I have everything down. Remember that what is routine to you might be totally new to your sitter, so go through your daily routine with your pet and write down what you do so that your instructions are thorough. Leave phone numbers where you can be contacted while you are away if necessary. Perhaps also leave the number of a relative or friend as an alternate contact in case the pet sitter is unable to reach you.
Detailed Instructions in Case of Medical Emergency
Leave a number for your vet, and it is a good idea to call ahead to your vet's office to let them know you will be away, who will be caring for your pet, and to "pre authorize" emergency treatment if needed. Leave a phone number where you can be contacted with your vet too. Make sure your pet sitter is clear about what you expect to be done if an emergency arises.
Finding a trusted pet sitter can be a stressful part of planning a vacation. Finding someone who will care for pets like you do is well worth the effort for your peace of mind while you are away.