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With experts warning pet owners that their return to work after the COVID-19 crisis may result in separation anxiety for their pets, Pet Sitters International (PSI) is encouraging pet owners to begin the search now for professional pet-sitting services.
PSI, the world’s largest educational association for professional pet sitters, is reminding pet owners that professional pet sitters will be available to check in on their pets during the day, whether they need dog walks, kitty enrichment visits, potty breaks for new puppies, or other pet-care services.
“Many pets have gotten used to the constant presence of their owners at home during this pandemic and may have trouble adjusting when their parents return to the office or begin traveling again,” said Beth Stultz-Hairston, president of PSI. “Fortunately, professional pet-sitting services are available to ensure that pets get the playtime and enrichment they need to alleviate stress and prevent destructive behaviors.”
To help PSI members prepare for the future influx of service requests and better meet the needs of pets readjusting to their owners’ absence, PSI is hosting a free online training for members on May 1, where Katenna Jones, ScM, ACAAB, CCBC, CDBC, CPDT-KA, will discuss post COVID-19 stress and pets. Members will practice spotting stress signals in pets, discover tips to give clients to help prepare in advance, and review ideas for stress reduction in pets post-pandemic.
Pet owners should not delay the search for professional pet-sitting services, PSI advises. Finding the right pet sitter for your family takes time, and lining up services now will better position pet parents for a smooth transition back to the office once stay-at-home orders are lifted.
“With so many pet-care options in the market now, it’s more important than ever that pet owners devote time to finding the perfect local professional pet-sitting business for their pet-care needs,” Stultz-Hairston said. “The peace of mind that comes from using a local professional pet sitter that is well-trained, has insurance tailored for their business, and can offer proof of a clear criminal history is priceless.”
“Plus, seeking out the services of a local professional pet-sitting business ensures you are boosting your local economy by supporting a local business that was likely hard hit by the COVID-19 shutdowns,” Stultz-Hairston added.
PSI recommends pet owners schedule an initial consultation with a potential pet sitter prior to booking services and ask seven important questions, available in PSI’s free Pet-Sitter Interview Checklist.
To learn more about PSI or to locate a professional pet sitter in your area, visit www.petsit.com/locate.
