These recommendations come from a number of pet sitters who have been in the business for many years and reflect their dedication to pets and their people, as well as continued improvement in the industry. Some of the items on the list include:

• The pet sitter should be insured, and if the company employs pet sitters, bonding may be necessary as well.
• The pet sitter should be able to provide at least three local references.
• The pet sitter should have a back-up plan. This is essential in case the pet sitter becomes ill, injured, or in any way incapacitated and unable to care for your pets.
• The pet sitter should be knowledgeable about general pet issues, pet first aid, and current concerns (i.e. pet food recalls).
• The pet sitter provides a service contract, and goes over specific services and their associated fees.

"Hiring a pet sitter can be a bit intimidating for the pet owner who has never left his pets (and home) in someone else's hands," says Therese Kopiwoda, founder and owner of PetsitUSA.com. "We felt it was important to compile this list with the input of a wide range of pet sitting professionals, and we believe their combined experience and expertise will benefit pet owners greatly."

Professional pet sitters agree that while the majority of pet sitters are responsible business owners, as with other professional services, pet owners must do their homework to find the best match for themselves and their pets. This list of important considerations, available at PetsitUSA.com, along with common sense, will help pet owners as they search for a pet care provider to meet their needs, and those of their pets.