Hiring a pet sitter is one of the most convenient solutions to caring for your treasured companions when you have to go out of town on business or for a holiday. Instead of stressing out your dog or cat by boarding him at an unfamiliar kennel, you can hire a trained pet sitter to care for your dog, in your home, during those times when you're not able to be there.

If you're considering hiring a pet sitter for the first time, it's always best to have a list of things the pet sitter needs to know when you interview them. That way, there will be no questions after you leave; everything will be taken care of to your specifications; you will not have to worry who is showing up on which day. The pet sitter you hire is the person who will be there to perform whatever needs to be done, for as long as you'll be away. The majority of the time, a pet sitter will not experience any difficulties. But, it's always prudent to make sure the person you're trusting the care and feeding of your dog to, is qualified to handle an emergency in the unlikely event one should arise.

Some key information to obtain from your prospective pet sitter:

• Does he or she have any veterinary experience?
• Often, veterinary technicians and assistants will take jobs as pet sitters. If your animal is older or has special dietary or medical requirements, having an individual with veterinary experience is a plus in case of any emergencies.
• Is the pet sitter familiar with pet first aid and giving medication?
• Basic first aid training is essential for every pet sitter. You wouldn't hire a baby sitter who is not familiar with CPR and other first aid techniques. Nor should you rely on a pet sitter who does not have the same qualifications when caring for animals. If your dog requires medication, it is best to ensure beforehand that the pet sitter has adequate experience in giving medications to animals.
• Is the pet sitter licensed and insured?
• It's one thing when you can leave your pet in the care of a trusted friend or family member. If that is not possible, always make sure your professional pet sitter is licensed, bonded and insured.
• Do they have references?
• If you've never hired a pet sitter, or are about to hire one you are unfamiliar with, always check references before hiring one.

In case of an emergency, a pet sitter should always have access to pertinent information. Always leave the following within easy reach of your pet sitter:

• Phone number for your regular veterinarian
• Phone number for the nearest emergency veterinary clinic
• Phone numbers of friends or relatives who live nearby.

At K9 Toronto, they want all their clients and their precious pets to be completely satisfied with the services they provide. They don't just strive to make your pets happy, they want you to be happy as well. That means, if you want them to water your plants and take in your mail, They'll do it. Just tell them what you want done, and they'll happily oblige.

For more information about K9 Toronto pet sitting services, visit their web site at http://www.k9-toronto.com/Dog-Sitting.php.