| answered a question | Any tips on separation anxiety? I have encountered separation anxiety both with the dogs that I watch and my personal pet, a Guinea pig. I have found that rather than medicating them- surrounding them with the toys, items which have a scent and familiarity of things that bring them comfort can be very soothing, sometimes it's helpful to give a toy which will let them gnaw and chew at it or something soothing like a blanket or toy that they love, especially with a familiar scent. If you are pet sitting for this pet, being soothing, comforting and reassuring to this probably anxious pet will probably really help. Give praise, reassurance and try to not get frustrated as the animal is probably very uncomfortable and uneasy being away from it's owners. Personally I have found with my Guinea pig that having someone present in my home when I am away to give lots of attention and love has helped him to not feel alone, isolated or abandoned- just knowing that someone is there to be with him, give him love, reassurance and take good care of him really helps. Good luck! Amy |
| answered a question | How much to charge for house sitting with multiple animals and "chores"? Hi- I no longer do housesitting but when I did, I would charge extra per pet- and it sounds like you are going to have a lot of extra animals and tasks/chores that she wants you to complete. I think that you could either: a) say that you're not comfortable with all of these demands - but ask her which ones are the most important to her and say that you will do those, perhaps remind her that your primary role as a "house sitter" is to take care of the animals, not be a housekeeper... b) if you choose to offer all of these services, figure out what a reasonable cost is which is fair to you and fair to the owner, I think it is perfectly reasonable to charge extra for multiple tasks and things needed besides taking care of the pets... I also would encourage you to consider taking short breaks when house sitting, which I did when I took car e of animals- that way you don't get burnt out, but can take care of yourself too-whether it go to get a bite to eat, shower, etc and not feel that you are swamped with things that this person is asking you to do- take care of yourself first! If this is something that you're not comfortable doing- let the owner know that- it's only fair to them and you to figure out whether or not this is a reasonable task for you- but take care of yourself, don't get burnt out by demanding owners. Good luck! Amy |