[PET OHANA]
HAWAIIAN HUMANE SOCIETY
When Clara Y. Kam goes on vacation, her adult daughter cares for brothers Koa and Patches. Their picture was chosen to grace the July page in last year's "Pets in Paradise" calendar. This year's deadline to enter your pet photo is July 31. Pick up an entry form at the Hawaiian Humane Society.
Since summertime is vacation time, families with pets have to figure out how to ensure quality care for their animal companions while they're traveling. The kind of arrangements you make depend on your pets' needs and how you would like them cared for in your absence. Take time to explore
pet caretaker optionsThere are two types of care you can choose: a pet sitter who cares for your animal in your home, or a kennel where your pet is boarded away from home. The Hawaiian Humane Society does not board animals but offers these tips to help you make the right decision to keep your pets happy while you are away on vacation.
How to pick a sitter
Just because people call themselves pet sitters doesn't mean they are qualified to do the job. A true "pet sitter" is a qualified, experienced individual who is paid to care for your pet. Though you may be tempted to ask a neighbor to look in on your pet, they may lack the skill or will to handle this for more than a day or two.A good pet sitter will have experience with your type of animal, spend quality time with them, provide exercise and the proper food, and will know how to tell whether your pet needs veterinary attention. Often you'll ease your pet's anxiety about your absence by keeping them at home in their familiar surroundings, which is especially helpful if there are multiple pets who are accustomed to being together.
At the same time, you will have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your pet is being cared for by a professional, along with someone to water the plants and bring in your newspaper so your home looks lived in. Since the pet sitter has the keys to your home, you'll have to trust him or her with your belongings.
To find a good pet sitter, start with a recommendation from your veterinarian, a dog trainer or friend. Check the Yellow Pages under "Pet Exercising, Feeding & Sitting Services." You can also get Hawaii referrals from the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, 800-296-PETS or www.petsitters. org; Pet Sitters International, 800-268-SITS or www.petsit.com; or the Pet Sitters Yellow Pages at www.petsitters.com.
Interview candidates at your home, and ask about the pet sitters' qualifications and services. Ask specifically when they will be with your pet and when they will be elsewhere. Ask for the phone numbers of other clients as references, and call them. If your pet needs medication, make sure the pet sitter is comfortable administering that. Find out if they can provide written proof that they are bonded and carry commercial liability insurance. Finally, give your pet a chance to vote. Introduce the pet sitter, and watch how he or she interacts with your animal.
Before you leave
>> Make sure your pets are wearing current identification tags.
>> Ensure that their vaccinations are up to date.
>> Leave clear instructions at home regarding pet care and emergency contact information, including how to reach you, your veterinarian and a neighbor with a back-up key.
>> Let your veterinarian know the name of your pet sitter and the dates you'll be away.
>> Have an adequate supply of pet food on hand, and leave instructions including amount and times of day to feed, likes and dislikes.
>> Teach the pet sitter about your pet's favorite hiding places.
The kennel option
Not everyone is comfortable leaving their home and companion animals with a sitter. A boarding kennel can offer quality care and might be better for pets who need medical supervision or tend to escape. Make sure you visit the kennel and are comfortable with what you see and smell. Ask all the same questions you would of a pet sitter, including how much exercise and cuddling time your pet would receive, and how many staff are available to take care of how many animals.Many veterinarians board animals for clients. Get referrals from friends and your veterinarian, or check the Yellow Pages under "Dog & Cat Kennels." Also check with the Better Business Bureau at 536-6956 to see whether any complaints have been lodged against a kennel you are considering. Once you've decided, reserve early.
Avoid long goodbyes
Whether you choose to board or put a pet sitter in charge, your companion animal will sense you are leaving. Do not draw out your goodbyes, which may upset your pet. Trust your temporary pet caregivers and have a nice vacation, knowing your pet is being well cared for and will welcome you when you return.
"Pet Ohana" runs the first and third Fridays of the month. The Hawaiian Humane Society is a nonprofit agency dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. They are at 2700 Waialae Ave. Call 946-2187.
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