Spring Break Planning

🌴 How to Prep Your Pet for a Stress-Free Staycation

Spring Break is almost here! Whether you’re jetting off for a week of sunshine or planning a relaxing staycation, don’t forget about your four-legged family members. While you’re making your getaway plans, it’s just as important to ensure your pets are safe, comfortable, and cared for at home.

At Pet and Home Care, we specialize in keeping pets happy while their humans are away. Here’s your go-to guide for planning ahead so everyone—pets included—can enjoy a worry-free Spring Break.

🐾 1. Reserve Your Pet Sitting Early

Spring is one of our busiest seasons, so it’s smart to book your pet care in advance.

Professional care means your pet gets personalized attention, regular exercise, and familiar routines while you’re gone. Leaving pets with a trusted sitter is far less stressful than boarding or relying on a neighbor.

✅ Book your pet sitting visit now
✅ Learn more about our in-home pet care services

🏡 2. Prep Your Home and Pet Supplies

A little preparation goes a long way in making your pet’s staycation smooth and stress-free:

  • Double-check your pet’s supply of food, medications, and treats

  • Leave written care instructions, emergency contacts, and your veterinarian’s info

  • Keep your pet’s favorite toys, blankets, and beds accessible for comfort

  • Check gates, fences, and doors to ensure your home is secure

✅ Want us to help with home tasks too? Explore our home care services—we’ll bring in your mail, water plants, and keep your home secure.

🕒 3. Stick to Their Routine

Pets thrive on routine—familiar schedules help them feel safe and relaxed. Our Pet Care Pros work to match your pet’s daily rhythm, including:

  • Mealtime and medication schedules

  • Regular walks, playtime, or outdoor breaks

  • Overnight care, if needed, to provide extra comfort

Tip: If your pet is used to lots of activity, consider adding an extra walk or play session during your time away.

🧠 4. Add a Little Enrichment

Extra mental stimulation can help ease separation anxiety and prevent boredom:

  • Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys

  • Interactive toys or chews

  • A favorite playlist or pet-safe TV channel for company

Need ideas? Check out the American Kennel Club’s enrichment toy guide for inspiration.

🦴 5. Enjoy Peace of Mind with Professional Care

Leaving your pet in professional hands means less worry for you—and a better experience for them:

  • Experienced pet care providers trained to handle health needs and emergencies

  • Daily photo updates so you can stay connected

  • Optional home care services to protect your home while you’re away

✅ See what our clients say about us in our reviews

💌 Ready to Book? Let Us Handle the Details

Your pets deserve the same love and care while you’re away—and that’s exactly what we deliver. Contact us today to schedule Spring Break pet sitting, overnight stays, or home care services. We’ll take care of your pets like they’re our own.

👉 Schedule Your Pet Sitting Visit Today

🌟 Bonus Tip: Traveling with Your Pet?

If you’re taking your pet along, make sure they’re up-to-date on vaccines and flea/tick prevention. Here’s a helpful checklist from the ASPCA for traveling safely with pets.

Professional Pet Sitters: Finding the Right Fit

Happy National Professional Pet Sitters Week!

This week, we celebrate the dedicated professionals who care for our pets when we can’t be there. More than caretakers, they’re trusted companions, safety nets, and an extension of the family—ensuring pets receive love, attention, and expert care.

Whether it’s daily walks, administering medications, or comforting an anxious pet, pet sitters play a crucial role in keeping our furry (or feathery) friends happy and healthy.

If you have a fantastic pet sitter in your life, take a moment to thank them this week! And if you’re still searching for the right pet sitter, here’s how to find one you can trust.

What to Look for in a Professional Pet Sitter

Finding the right pet sitter takes time and research, but the effort pays off in peace of mind while you’re away. With the pet-sitting industry growing, knowing what to look for ensures you hire a reliable, qualified professional.

1. Are They Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?

A professional pet sitter should operate as a legitimate business. If licensing is required in your area, confirm they have one. Most importantly, they should be insured and bonded to protect both you and your pet.

📌 Ask for proof of coverage and ensure it includes care, custody, and control coverage, which protects against accidents or injuries while your pet is in their care.

2. Do They Have a Clear Background Check?

Since a pet sitter will have access to your home, it’s essential they have a clean background check. Many reputable pet sitters undergo annual screenings and can share details about their verification process.

3. Can They Provide References?

A professional sitter should have client testimonials or references available. Ask for:
 ✔️ Contact info for current or past clients
 ✔️ Verified online reviews
 ✔️ Testimonials highlighting reliability and professionalism

If they struggle to provide references, consider it a red flag.

4. Do They Use a Pet-Sitting Contract?

A clear agreement ensures both parties understand expectations. It should include:
 ✅ Service dates and times
 ✅ Specific care instructions
 ✅ Policies on cancellations, emergencies, and payments
 ✅ Emergency contacts

5. What Certifications or Training Do They Have?

🐾 Certified Professional Pet Sitter® (CPPS): Industry-recognized certification.
 🐾 Pet First Aid & CPR Training: Prepares them for emergencies.
 🐾 Membership in Professional Organizations: Shows commitment to education and best practices.

6. Do They Offer a Meet & Greet?

A pre-visit consultation is essential before hiring. This meeting allows:
 ✔️ Your pet to meet the sitter.
 ✔️ Discussion of routines, dietary needs, and medical concerns.
 ✔️ Evaluation of the sitter’s professionalism and interaction with your pet.

7. How Will They Keep You Updated?

A professional sitter should provide regular updates to reassure you while you’re away. Ask how they communicate:
 📸 Photos/videos
 📧 Text or email check-ins
 📝 Daily visit summaries

8. Are They Passionate About Pet Care?

Beyond credentials, a great pet sitter genuinely loves animals and understands their needs. They should:

💛 Show patience and attentiveness
 💛 Understand pet behavior and body language
 💛 Be willing to accommodate special needs and senior pets

Final Thoughts: Take Your Time & Choose Wisely

Finding the right pet sitter takes effort, but a qualified, insured, and caring professional offers more than just basic care—they provide peace of mind.

When you find a great pet sitter, they truly are worth their weight in gold! 🏅

Looking for a trusted pet sitter? Let us help you find the perfect fit for your pet’s needs!