#Middlebury #Kennels #DogSitter
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: How do I know if a dog-care facility or a dog sitter are legit? We’re planning a vacation this summer and can’t take Riley, our German Shepherd. – Barbara L., Parsippany, New Jersey
DEAR BARBARA: You’re doing the right thing by checking out more than one option for Riley’s care while you’re away. A dog kennel has its good points – as well as specific things to watch for. Likewise for a dog sitter who will come to your home regularly to feed, walk and play with your dog.
In New Jersey, animal facilities including kennels must be licensed annually. They also must be inspected by the local health department to make sure they are sanitary and comply with building codes.
Of course, that’s not enough to ensure a satisfactory boarding experience for Riley. No one wants to come back from vacation to find their dog got sick or, in the case of an Indiana couple, was lost. Here are some tips:
- Personally visit each facility and ask for a tour.
- Do research online: Read reviews, search for notices of violations, and look for any news articles about the facilities, good or bad.
- Ask around at the dog park: Find out where other owners boarded their pets.
The regulations for in-home pet sitters are not as clear, and so you need to check out potential sitters closely. Word-of-mouth recommendations and positive online reviews are a good start, but don’t go by these alone.
- Meet the sitters personally to interview them, learn about their experience and see how they interact with Riley.
- Ask if they’re affiliated with any national or international pet sitter organizations.
- Find out if they are bonded and insured – this protects both you and the sitter should anything go amiss.
Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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