When pet owners aren’t able to take their four-legged friends on vacation or a business trip, they have two main options to ensure they get the care they need: in-home pet sitting or pet boarding. Many people think these two offerings are synonymous, but there are some major differences between them. Understanding those differences helps you decide which option is best for you and your pet.

The Differences Between Pet Sitting & Boarding

Pet boarding involves taking your pets to an offsite kennel where a team of providers cares for them until you return from your trip. This is typically the less expensive option, but your pet will be one of many that their team is looking after while you are away.

During their stay, the pet care professionals feed your pet, and they can typically accommodate any special nutritional needs. The animals spend their nights in individual crates, but they typically can socialize with the other guests during the day in shared play spaces. Members of the team are trained to handle any medical emergencies that might arise.

The biggest difference between boarding and in-home pet sitting is that the latter is performed at your own home. It still includes a trained professional, only now you have the option of picking a provider that stays at your home and cares for your pets all day, or one who stops by two or three times a day. The provider will feed your pets, play with them, provide any needed medications, and take them for walks until you return home.

The Advantages of Pet Sitting Over Boarding

Arranging to have a pet sitter come to your home is largely considered to be the better option for your pets. The main reason is that it is less stressful for your furry family member.

You don’t have to worry about putting them in an unfamiliar environment with people they don’t know. That can be a stressful experience for many animals.

Instead, your pets receive the care they need from the comfort of their own home. They can eat their own food on their normal schedule, which reduces the risk of any gastrointestinal issues. They also sleep in their own bed, so the chances of a restless night’s sleep are reduced.

Make sure your pets get the care they need while you’re away by contacting Shar-Jo’s Pet Styling & In-Home Pet Sitting. Serving the Milford, OH, area for more than 30 years, their team of highly trained in-home pet sitting providers has the experience and passion needed to ensure your pets receive all the care they need to stay happy and healthy until you return home. Learn more by visiting them online or call (513) 831-9457 to find your provider.