Pet Sitting Vs. Boarding

Episode 38: Mar 14, 2023

Why do pet owners choose to use our pet sitting services instead of boarding their pets? As observed by our clientele, here are some of the great reasons to utilize Sits & Wiggles, LLC's in home pet sitting services.

Let's consider the typical boarding environment. (I use the word "typical" here, as there may be exceptions, which are improvements upon the standard.)

Multiple dogs are kept together in a single building. The human staff is far outnumbered by the dogs. The dogs may experience intimidation, low self esteem, fear, anxiety and more. They may not understand why they're in this new environment or why their families aren't present. Since the staff is outnumbered by the dogs, they can't see or tend to every situation. They are unable to take the time to read canine body language in order to minimize the chance of altercations. A dog may be bullied by another dog, and the staff may not be able to observe this, as they are rending to other dogs & situations.

Someone may have a potty accident, and another dog gets into it before the staff is able to clean it. This increases the chances for disease to spread. In addition, just being present among a large group of dogs increases the chance of exposure to highly contagious illnesses such as kennel cough & giardia. Yes, kennel cough even has the word "kennel" in the name. Many illnesses take a few days to show symptoms. So you may bring your seemingly healthy pup to a boarding facility, without knowing that you're exposing all the others boarders to the virus.

Then, at bedtime, the pups are separated into crates. Some may howl or whine as they're lonely and / or frightened. This sets off a chain reaction. Those who may have not been as scared have now been triggered. The whole scene resembles a doggie jail.

With in home pet sitting services, dogs are more comfortable, as they are in their own environment. They are surrounded by familiar scents, sounds & spaces. They can continue their routines, walk their regular route, and slumber in their special spot. They will receive individualized attention from their pet sitter. In their own homes, dogs are less likely to suffer from fear, anxiety & stress than in a boarding environment. Kennels can be noisy & scary for animals.

Sitters can focus specifically on your dog(s), which minimizes the potential for error. If a kennel tech is responsible for feeding & medication 15 various dogs, the statistical chances for error increase. Your dog may receive the incorrect amount or type of food. They may receive the wrong medication, which is a perilous predicament to be in.

In addition, dogs are more at risk of being injured by other dogs, accidentally or otherwise, when the number of dogs rises. Certainly, dogs who cohabitate may occassionally injure each other. I'm simply saying that this injury is more likely to occur as when you have dozens of dogs; who are unfamiliar to each other; together in one space, with tensions rising.

Well trained pet sitters can read & evaluate canine body language in order to tend to needs & prevent altercations. They can provide exercise, affection & mental stimulus to the pets in their care. In addition, they will form a bond with your pets. This bond will grow & deepen over time. As seen in the image above, sitters can cuddle with your pups. This can't be done in boarding situations with dogs locked in kennels.

Pet sitters will care for your home as well as your beloved pets. Having a person stay at your home is a crime deterrent. So is having your dogs there. If a pet is in distress or requires emergency care, a sitter will be able to act quickly. A kennel attendant may not realize that a dog is in distress as quickly, as the kennel may be loud, and they're providing care to multiple dogs simultaneously. For example, if a frightened pup is howling or whining, the attendant may not hear the pup who is choking.

In my mind, boarding isn't an option. Yet, you still use these services because the monetray cost is less than hiring a pet sitter. First, let me remind you that there are costs other than money. A traumatic experience may very well alter your dog. If you can't afford professional pet sitting services, there are a few options. If you have a trusted friend or family member, you can watch each other's pets. Or, you can barter (trade services or products without exchanging money).