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Pets_SitterChecklist.sPubDate = "11/12/2004 12:56:10 AM GMT";
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Pets_SitterChecklist.appHeader = "Guide|Pet sitter checklist";
Pets_SitterChecklist.appDeck = "For the safety of your animal, it’s important that you follow a few basic guidelines when choosing a pet sitter:";
Pets_SitterChecklist.appFooter = "Source: MSNBC research";
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Pets_SitterChecklist[i-1].body = "Think seriously about hiring a professional — someone who does pet sitting for a living — as opposed to the neighbor kid or an acquaintance who just happens to \"really like animals.\"
To find possible candidates, check with your veterinarian or ask friends for references. In addition, both PSI and NAPPS offer free pet-sitter referral services on their Web sites. They can be found at PetSit.com and PetSitters.org
Once you think you’ve found someone, invite the potential sitter over for an interview and meeting with your pet. Observe the sitter with your animal and make sure there’s a definite compatibility on both sides.
The sitter should provide at least three references, which you should check, as well as written information describing the services and fees. Make sure the person is bonded and insured.
Once you’ve agreed to hire them, the sitter should provide a written service contract, which outlines the work they will do and how much it will cost. They should also inform you of their back-up plan in case they become ill or can’t get to your home for whatever reason.
Be sure to provide the sitter with a list of detailed information about your pet and how to reach you and your veterinarian in case of an emergency.
If you’re using a pet-sitting service with many employees, as opposed to an individual, ask about the screening process. You may feel more comfortable having a stranger in your home if they’ve undergone a background check first.
For more questions to ask a potential pet sitter, PSI offers a complete checklist at PetSit.com";
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