Why Relying on Neighbors for Pet Sitting Can Be a Risky Gamble

As professional pet sitters, we get a lot of last-minute calls from clients whose original plans have fallen through. They’re often in a panic because a neighbor who agreed to watch their pets has suddenly had an emergency and is no longer available.
While most people mean well, pet sitting is a responsibility that requires experience, dedication, and a backup plan. Here are a couple real-life examples that show why a professional touch is so important.
Story #1: The Cat with a Urinary Tract Infection
A client hired us to check on her cat for a week. A few days into the visits, something seemed off. The cat stopped eating and wasn’t using the litter box. We immediately called the owner, who gave us permission to take the cat to the vet. It turned out the cat had a urinary tract infection.
An inexperienced sitter might have just assumed the cat was being finicky and ignored the signs, but our team is trained to recognize subtle changes in a pet’s health.
Story #2: The Cat Locked in the Laundry Room
On the first day of a new cat-sitting job, we were caring for five cats but could only find four. We knew we had to find the fifth cat before we could leave with a clear conscience. After a thorough search, we found the missing cat—trapped behind the dryer in the laundry room.
The owners had left earlier that day, unaware they had accidentally locked the cat in. A less diligent sitter might have missed the cat completely, leaving it trapped for an entire vacation.
The Emergency That Cut Vacation Short
Emergencies happen—a car accident, a sudden illness, or a family crisis. A professional pet-sitting company has a backup plan with trained employees who can step in, so you don’t have to cut your trip short. Your neighbor may not have the capacity to handle such a crisis, which could leave your pet stranded.
The Professional Difference
When hiring a pet sitter, choose a professional who is licensed, insured, and has a reliable backup plan. A professional pet sitter offers:
  • Expertise: We know how to spot health issues and behavioral changes that an untrained eye might miss.
  • Reliability: We are committed to your pets and won’t cancel at the last minute.
  • Accountability: We have systems and protocols to ensure every visit is done correctly. 
For peace of mind on your next trip, choose a professional pet sitter. To find a professional near you, visit https://www.petsit.com.

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