#Middlebury
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I went on a weeklong Caribbean cruise with friends and left my cat, Fuzzy, with a pet sitter who kept her in her home. The sitter had good references, but a few days after I returned and picked up Fuzzy, I noticed her scratching. Checking her fur, she was riddled with fleas! I’m very unhappy about this – it will be very difficult to rid her and my apartment of the infestation. Should I ask for my money back from the sitter? – Caroline in Brooklyn
DEAR CAROLINE: You certainly should contact the sitter and tell her about the flea infestation. Let her know that Fuzzy didn’t have fleas before she stayed over and that now she does.
The sitter may not have known that fleas were an issue in her home. Perhaps they rode in on another guest cat. So, she’ll certainly need to treat her home before accepting any more pets.
She should know that you’re not happy and that you have to shell out money to treat Fuzzy for fleas. As to whether she should refund your money entirely? It may be up for negotiation. She may offer to refund the difference of the cost of ridding Fuzzy of fleas – so save your receipts from the pet store and veterinarian.
Since pet-sitting fees for a week-long stay can run to hundreds and even thousands of dollars, you may want to consult a lawyer for advice. Chances are you can directly negotiate a refund with the sitter, but it’s good to know all your options, like small claims court, just in case.
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