Emphasis all too frequently is placed more on the quantity of calls rather than the pet’s welfare since pet checkers are usually paid by the job.....there are differences, and you should know about them before you leave your pets home alone.

Misconceptions - Many misconceptions exist between what pet care professionals can provide, and what pet checkers do in the absence of pet owners. Since we have a genuine interest in the welfare of the pets they care for, here are some points for consideration.

At Pet-Lodge Pet Resort our managers and owners family live right on the property to provide care should the need arise.

NEXT TIME YOU PLAN A VACATION, CONSIDER THESE DIFFERENCES:

Pet Checker Situation

Pet left alone 23 out of 24 hours.
Pet may suffer from separation anxiety and extreme boredom.
With no social interaction or routine the pet may become ill or howl or bark nonstop.
Pet may suffer needlessly due to delayed treatment for illness or accident.
Pet may bark at entry of pet checker - "protecting" his home, or hide under a bed preventing adequate care.
Pet may destroy home, yard, belongings, or even forget house training.
Pet may run away to find his owner, or hurt himself trying, especially during thunderstorms, or fireworks.

Pet checkers can't match this routine without several costly trips to the owner's house and just may miss or overlook important signs during the short time they are in your home.

Costs - One of the primary reasons pet owners revert to pet checkers is price. As you well know, good quality care does not come cheap, but consider that we have invested great capital in our state-of-the-art facilitiy and the finest trained loving pet care providers.  We are financially motivated to provide excellent care and service and too.

Boarded pets are observed by full-time trained loving pet care providers with the owners living on the premises. The pet's well-being is our 1st priority. Health or behavior problems can then be referred to the right specialist. The loving pet care providers at our facilities  regularly notice symptoms even the most attentive owners might overlook at home.   Boarded pets are monitored individually throughout the day and evening hours. Grouped pets cannot be monitored effectively and when left at home, cannot be monitored at all.

Boarded pets receive flea treatments, skin, coat and medical care as needed or as directed by their veterinarian each time they board.

Boarded pets are required to have current vaccinations for contagious diseases. Pet checkers going from house to house may introduce virus to unvaccinated pets. Boarded pets do not destroy carpeting, drapes, landscaping or your relationship with your neighbors.

Home Security - While the care and well being of your pet is your main concern, you should also consider the risks of strangers (whether bonded or not) having access to your home and personal property.

Separation Anxiety - Pets suffer emotional stress when their owners leave whether they're left at home or placed in a boarding kennel.  It's how those providing the care respond that makes the difference in the pet's emotional state.

Health & Welfare - Stresses brought on by the pet owner leaving may cause an illness to come on quickly. Disorders such as bloat, diarrhea and heatstroke need prompt attention or the pet may suffer needlessly. Home accidents such as ingesting household poisons, injuries or bee stings can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Pets on medication should receive it on schedule and be monitored for side effects and other symptoms. Extra effort must be made to keep the convalescing pet comfortable, clean, eating, eliminating and to make follow-up visits to the veterinarian.