Nestled deep in the heart of the Lone Star State, the spirited tradition of tailgating at Longhorns and Dallas Cowboys games is nothing short of a rite of passage for sports enthusiasts. Year after year, it brings together a diverse community of football fans, igniting the spirit of camaraderie and celebration. However, as we revel in the excitement of these time-honored gatherings, it’s essential that we keep a watchful eye on the well-being of our faithful furry companions who often join us in these festivities. After all, they’re an integral part of our game-day crew, and their comfort and safety deserve our utmost consideration.

RISKS OF BRINGING YOUR DOG TAILGATING

The tailgating scene, while undeniably exhilarating for football fans, may not be the ideal place for our canine companions. Let’s delve deeper into why bringing your dog to a tailgate event can pose significant challenges:

1. Traffic and Moving Vehicles: Tailgate parties often take place in crowded parking lots or outdoor areas where vehicles are constantly on the move. The combination of excited fans, drivers trying to find parking spots, and the occasional revving engine can create a potentially hazardous environment for dogs. Even the most well-behaved dogs can become anxious or frightened in such a setting, which might lead to unpredictable behavior.

2. Unsafe Food: Tailgate gatherings are notorious for their delicious but not-so-dog-friendly food offerings. From spicy chili to foods loaded with onions and garlic, many tailgate staples are not safe for dogs to consume. Accidental ingestion of such foods can lead to gastrointestinal distress or even toxicity. Moreover, the constant temptation of food scraps on the ground can be a challenge for dogs to resist.

3. Texas Weather Extremes: Texas weather is known for its extremes, swinging from sweltering heat to chilly cold, sometimes within the span of a few hours. Tailgates often occur in open spaces without adequate shelter for pets. Dogs can quickly become uncomfortable or even suffer from heatstroke in the scorching sun, or they might shiver in the cold during evening games.

4. Loud and Chaotic Atmosphere: Tailgate parties are vibrant, noisy affairs with music, cheering, and conversations in full swing. While some dogs might be unfazed by the commotion, others can find it overwhelming and stressful. For dogs not accustomed to such environments, the loud noises and enthusiastic crowds can lead to anxiety or fear.

5. Limited Space to Roam: In the confined space of a tailgate area, dogs may not have the freedom to move and explore as they would in a park or at home. This lack of space can lead to restlessness or frustration in some dogs, potentially resulting in disruptive behaviors.

Considering these factors, it becomes evident that while tailgating is a beloved Texan tradition, it may not be the most dog-friendly environment. For many pet owners, ensuring their dog’s safety, comfort, and well-being often means making the responsible choice to leave them in a secure and familiar environment at home.

LEAVING YOUR DOG AT HOME

So, what’s the alternative? Leaving your beloved pup at home while you soak up the pre-game excitement. We all know that a proper tailgate begins at the crack of dawn and can last well into the evening. But this extended time away from home can pose various challenges for your furry friend.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR PET’S NEEDS

Our pets are like little detectives, always keenly aware of our routines. When they suddenly find themselves alone on a day when the house is usually buzzing with activity, it can lead to anxiety, even in the most laid-back dogs. This shift in their world can trigger some interesting behaviors like digging, chewing, incessant barking, and the occasional howling serenade.

THE SOLUTION: PROFESSIONAL PET SITTERS IN DALLAS

Here’s the good news: there’s a simple solution that lets you enjoy your tailgating party without fretting about your dog feeling lonely. Pet sitters are your secret weapon for keeping your fur baby safe and happy while you’re out, whether it’s just for the day or longer.

WHY CHOOSING A PET SITTER FOR GAMEDAY IS A WIN-WIN

You see, many pet parents affectionately refer to their dogs as “four-legged toddlers,” and it’s not too far off the mark. Too much alone time can lead to behavioral issues, just like kids acting out when they’re left to their own devices.

This is where VIP Pet Services comes in. We’re not just another pet sitting service. We’re a team of dedicated pet lovers who understand the unique needs of your four-legged family members. Our experienced pet sitters are not only passionate about animals but also seasoned in handling various breeds and temperaments. They’ll make sure your pup gets the attention, exercise, and care they deserve while you’re away.

As you gear up for the big game, don’t forget to provide your pet sitter with crucial information like how to reach you (and a backup contact for when your phone dies) and where to go in case of an emergency. Show them where your Pet First Aid Kit is stashed and walk them through your disaster plan. With our reliable and dedicated pet sitters, you can enjoy the game with a heart full of joy, knowing your beloved pet is in safe and loving hands. Here’s to an amazing and safe football season in Texas!

Well, you’re in luck if you call Plano home.  With a wide variety of dog-friendly restaurants, Plano pet owners have the perfect opportunity to enjoy a meal without leaving their furry friends behind. Our dogs love spending quality time with us, and including them in our dining experiences can make for memorable outings. As Plano’s preferred pet sitter, we have dug up all the dirt on the best dog-friendly restaurants to grab a bite with your favorite four-legged companion.

THE BENEFITS OF DINING OUT WITH YOUR DOG

Taking your dog out to eat extends far beyond the joy of sharing a delicious meal together. It opens up a world of benefits and experiences that enrich both your lives. From strengthening your bond to promoting socialization and exploring new environments, dining out with your dog enhances the overall dining experience and creates lasting memories for both of you.

STRENGTHENS BOND

One of the primary advantages is the opportunity to spend quality time with your furry friend, which helps strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion. By sharing a meal at a restaurant, you create lasting memories and engage in shared experiences that deepen your connection and reinforce the love and trust you have for each other.

IMPROVES SOCIALIZATION

Another significant benefit is the chance for socialization that dining out provides. Your dog can experience new environments, encounter different people, and interact with other animals in a controlled setting. This exposure helps your dog become more well-rounded and confident, enhancing their social skills and contributing to their overall behavioral development. In a dog-friendly restaurant, your pup may have the chance to meet other friendly dogs, receive attention from pet-loving staff, and even enjoy the affection of fellow diners. Such positive social interactions help reduce anxiety in public settings and promote emotional well-being.

SENSORY ENRICHMENT

Dining out with your dog allows you both to enjoy the outdoors, taking advantage of beautiful patio settings or spacious garden areas. This outdoor experience not only offers a change of scenery but also provides sensory stimulation and mental enrichment for your dog. They can bask in the fresh air, observe their surroundings, and benefit from the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. This exposure to different environments helps prevent boredom and promotes a healthy and stimulated mind.

OVERALL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

It can even contribute to your and your dog’s overall fitness and well-being. Many dog-friendly restaurants are located in areas that are ideal for walking, offering nearby parks or scenic paths where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll before or after your meal. The combination of exercise and social interaction contributes to a healthier and happier dog.

PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE WHEN DINING OUT WITH YOUR DOG

While dining out with your dog can be enjoyable, it’s essential to be mindful of other patrons and the restaurant staff. Here are some etiquette tips to ensure a positive experience for everyone:

Well-Behaved and Leashed

Ensure your dog is well-behaved, comfortable in social settings, and properly trained. Keep your dog on a leash at all times to maintain control and prevent any potential disturbances. If you are just beginning socialization training with your dog it’s best to visit dog-friendly restaurants during non-peak hours to avoid excessive distractions.

Outdoor Seating Only

Respect the restaurant’s policy by keeping your dog in designated outdoor areas. Avoid bringing your dog inside the establishment, as it may be against health regulations.  It’s a good idea to call ahead to be sure there is space available. Some restaurants have a limited number of pet tables available, so reservations may be required.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

Bring waste bags and promptly clean up after your dog. Carry water and a portable bowl for your dog’s hydration needs. Be considerate of other guests and maintain a clean environment.

Noise and Disturbances

If your dog tends to bark excessively or becomes anxious in busy environments, it may be best to choose quieter times or opt for restaurants with more spacious outdoor areas. You can also employ the help of a professional dog trainer who can assist with socializing your dog in unfamiliar environments.

Comfort and Safety

Ensure your dog is comfortable with the surroundings and has access to shade and fresh water. Avoid leaving your dog unattended, and be aware of potential hazards such as hot surfaces or harmful foods. It is not uncommon with patio dining to have food on the ground that could potentially cause a bad reaction for your dog. Always be on the look out for safety issues.

While you enjoy your meal, don’t forget to pamper your pup with some special attention. Consider ordering a dog-friendly dish or treat from the menu if available. Bring along a favorite blanket or toy to make your dog feel more at ease. Take breaks to interact with your dog, allowing for short walks or moments of play. Capture the memories by snapping some adorable pictures of your dog enjoying the outing.

THE BEST DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN PLANO, TX

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar is not only a fantastic place to dine, but it also welcomes your furry companion. This casual dining establishment in Plano offers dog-friendly meals. Treat your pup to a mouthwatering “grilled hamburger patty with brown rice” or a delectable “grilled chicken breast with brown rice,” available off their dedicated dog menu. As long as you avoid the three B’s—begging, barking, or biting—your dog is sure to have a wonderful time enjoying a meal with you.

Katy Trail Ice House Outpost

For a fun dining experience with a BBQ feast, head to Katy Trail Ice House Outpost. This restaurant offers a variety of bar bites and Texan beers, all within a dog-friendly environment. The large, tree-lined outdoor patio is a perfect spot for you and your dog to enjoy the ambiance. Take advantage of Happy Hour at 5:30 PM every day, and savor some refreshing cocktails while simultaneously enjoying a leisurely walk home with your furry companion.

Pepper Smash

Who says your dog can’t join you for a night on the town? At Pepper Smash, known for its wide selection of high-quality cocktails, you can relish in the company of your pup. This establishment offers Indian and Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. Be sure to choose the outdoor seating area, as it is entirely dog-friendly. Indulge in delectable dishes while your four-legged friend relaxes by your side.

Abuelo’s

If you’re craving Mexican cuisine, Abuelo’s is the place to be. This hotspot is renowned for its mouthwatering tacos, burritos, and empanadas. The best part for dog lovers? The entire outdoor seating area is completely dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your nachos while your furry companion keeps you company.

Holy Grail Pub

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly pub experience in Plano, TX, the Holy Grail Pub is a fantastic choice. With its inviting outdoor patio, delicious menu offerings, and genuine hospitality toward furry friends, it’s a place where you can relax, enjoy good company, and create lasting memories with your dog by your side.

Senor Locos Tex Mex Ice House

Known for welcoming furry companions on its outdoor patio with ample space and a relaxed ambiance, you and your dog can enjoy Tex-Mex delights and refreshing drinks together at Senor Locos. The staff at Senor Locos is accommodating and provides water bowls for dogs, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. It’s a great spot to dine and unwind with your canine companion in Plano. It can get a bit noisy though for sensitive dogs.

Turbo Pizza & Wine Bar

Located in The Colony, it’s worth making the list. Turbo Pizza and Wine Bar embraces a dog-friendly environment, allowing well-behaved dogs on their outdoor patio. This charming establishment provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious pizza and a wide selection of wines while your furry friend accompanies you. The staff at Turbo Pizza and Wine Bar welcomes dogs warmly, ensuring both you and your canine companion have a pleasant dining experience together.

Mexican Sugar Cocina

Mexican Sugar in Plano goes above and beyond to create a truly dog-friendly atmosphere, inviting well-behaved dogs to join their owners on the lively outdoor patio. As you indulge in the vibrant flavors of contemporary Mexican cuisine, your furry friend can relax by your side, basking in the welcoming ambiance. The attentive staff at Mexican Sugar ensures that both you and your beloved canine companion have an enjoyable dining experience, making it a top choice for dog owners looking for a dog-friendly restaurant in Plano.

Taking your dog out to eat can be a delightful experience for both you and your furry friend. It provides an opportunity to bond, socialize, and enjoy the outdoor ambiance of dog-friendly restaurants. Remember to choose establishments that welcome dogs, adhere to proper etiquette, and prioritize the comfort and safety of your dog. With careful planning and consideration, dining out with your dog can become a cherished and memorable part of your shared adventures. So, grab the leash, find a dog-friendly eatery, and embark on a culinary journey with your loyal companion by your side.

And, for those times when you can’t take your pup with you, check out VIP Pet Service’s Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Service in Plano. We love taking care of your pets while you’re away. Our caring and experienced team who will provide personalized care for your furry friend. You can relax knowing that your pet is in good hands while you enjoy all Plano has to offer.

Lace-up your sneakers, grab your dog’s leash, and get ready to go dog walking in Plano. As the most trusted pet sitter and dog walker in Plano, we know where all the best dog-friendly spots are at. These beautiful natural settings are some of the best places to walk your dog. Located about 20 miles north of Dallas, Plano offers a multitude of trees, walking trails, and several beautiful parks around the city.

Next time you are heading out to walk your dog, check out one of these great places for dog walking in Plano. Your dog may not be able to verbally say it, but we know they will love it! If our word isn’t enough, just look for the wagging tail and the excitement on their face!

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Address: 6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093

Where Nature Thrives

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park on the western side of Plano.  It features three distinct eco-regions: 1) Blackland Prairie, 2) Riparian Forest, and 3) Upland Forest.  The entire area is pet-friendly with paved and unpaved walking trails, as well as water areas, so your dog can enjoy a little splash in the creeks on hot days.

Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve

Roam Free

With its vast 800-acre expanse, Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve is a true gem in Plano’s outdoor offerings. Ranked fourth on TripAdvisor’s list of must-see attractions, this park features 3.5 miles of concrete trails and 5 miles of soft surface trails along the scenic Rowlett Creek. Nature enthusiasts can explore these trails from sunrise to sunset daily.

Bob Woodruff Park

A Scenic Sanctuary

Connected by bike trails by Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, Bob Woodruff Park offers a serene escape for nature lovers and their furry companions. This expansive park spans over 840 acres, larger than New York City’s Central Park. Here, you can admire one of the area’s oldest trees, estimated to be over 200 years old.

Russell Creek Park

Unwind in Nature’s Embrace

Russell Creek Park is a beloved community hub boasting a tranquil lake and 3.5 miles of paved trails perfect for hiking and biking adventures with your four-legged friend.

Spring Creek Nature Area

A Scenic Sanctuary

Just a stone’s throw away from Plano, the 51-acre Spring Creek Nature Area in Richardson offers a delightful escape into nature’s embrace. Meandering trails wind through a picturesque hardwood forest, and a pedestrian bridge overlooks the enchanting Spring Creek, which connects with the Galatyn Woodland Preserve.

BEING A STEWARD OF NATURE WITH YOUR CANINE COMPANION

No matter which nature spot you and your pup venture into, it is crucial to embrace responsible pet ownership by taking care of the environment. Always carry waste bags and promptly clean up after your furry companion, ensuring that their waste is properly disposed of in designated receptacles. By doing so, you contribute to maintaining the cleanliness and pristine beauty of these natural spaces, preserving them for everyone’s enjoyment. It prevents the accumulation of waste, promotes hygiene, and safeguards the health of other visitors and wildlife. By being diligent in cleaning up, you create a positive example for fellow dog owners, fostering a community of responsible pet ownership and environmental stewardship.

DON’T HAVE TIME TO GET TO THE PARK OR WALK YOUR DOG?

The trusted professionals at VIP Pet Services in Plano are happy to help! With over 20 years serving the entire Plano area, you know your pet is in good hands. Our unwavering dedication to the highest industry standards ensures your pet receives the same love and care they get from you when you’re away!

VIP Pet Services understands the importance of maintaining a consistent and loving environment for your furry friend. Whether you need pet sitting, dog walking, or other specialized services, our trained professionals will ensure that your pet receives the same level of care and attention you provide.

Are you heading out of town and wondering about the pet sitting costs in Plano? As a Plano pet owner, you’re not alone in wanting the best care for your furry friend while considering the cost. With numerous service providers and evolving technologies, it can be overwhelming to determine the best option. This guide aims to break down the factors influencing pet sitting costs in Plano and help you make an informed decision.

Our price point research is based on the most common service we offer — in-home visits. Pet sitting costs in Plano are based on how much time is spent in the home. There are other services, including live-in care (staying with your pet 24/7) or overnight care. Either of these services will increase the prices we’ve included below.

FREE PET SITTING: NOT ALL IT’S CRACKED UP TO BE

Why pay for a pet sitter when you have family and friends who love Fido as much as you do, who will do it for free? But free isn’t always what you’d hope for, in terms of the best all-around care. Some ways to get free pet care include:

• Relatives in the local area
• Friends who are willing to feed your dog
• A local barter system (service for service)
• Asking your neighbor’s child to walk and feed your pet

Trustedhousesitters.com is another option. With this “barter” system, you get free pet care, in return for letting the sitter stay at your home, rent free. But, do you really know who’s staying in your home while you’re away? That’s a factor you’ll have to weigh if you consider this free pet sitting option.

With free pet sitting, some additional factors or variables to weigh are:

1. Level of commitment; is it a full-time job, is the sitter going to come to your home when they say they will?
2. What if something happens, is there a backup plan in place to ensure your dog goes out for a walk and has food and water?
3. With strangers, are they trustworthy? Did you do proper background checks to know who’s coming into your home?
4. With family and friends can you really hold them to the highest standard? (It’s free, you have to give them a break, right?)

Free is great. But, it’s not always the best option. There’s no guarantee that your dog or cat has food and water all day. Nor is there a guarantee something won’t “come up” last minute, where your family member can’t come to the house. What do you do then? This is the primary reason people opt to pay for pet sitters. Hiring a professional pet sitter in Plano who is dedicated to pet care because it’s their regular job (full time or part-time), can provide some peace of mind.

APP BASED TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES

App based technology companies are fairly new to the pet sitting industry and are an option to consider when reviewing the pet sitting cost in Plano. Typically, their prices range from $15 to $25 per visit. Sites like Rover, Wag, and Care.com now take online bookings for pet sitting and dog walking.

Basically, you visit the site, choose a time slot, and pay the fee. You can compare sitters before choosing one. They do offer insurance in case something goes wrong. These sitters are usually people doing side gigs, like college students.

When using these app based sitter services, you should still consider:

• If the sitter is a full-time sitter, or doing a “side hustle”, as this will indicate their level of commitment to the job
• How many pets does the sitter have under their care at one time
• If the sitter is a pet lover, volunteers, etc…
• What is covered through the insurance the app-based companies offer
• If there are emergency services offered
• The frequency at which the company/sitter will update you on your pet
• Dishonesty bonding (what if the sitter steals your possessions, are you covered?

Even Rover advises users to arrange introductory playdates and even consider inspecting a sitter’s home before finalizing the booking. You still don’t know who’s coming into your home and what they guarantee, so find out before utilizing this mid-range sitter service.

PROFESSIONAL PET SITTING COSTS IN PLANO

The range for a professional sitter is typically $20 to $48 per visit. Professional pet sitting companies charge more for several reasons. For most, this is their full-time job, their livelihood and they have all of the expenses that go along with running a legitimate business. A professional company will offer GPS tracking of your pet, visit notifications, report cards with photo updates so you know how they’re doing when you’re away, and other notifications about their care.

A reputable pet sitter agency in Plano will have a system in place to ensure no pet is ever forgotten.  The best pet sitters in Plano will have backup plans for extreme weather, medical emergencies or any unexpected occurrences. They have open communication, allowing you to check in when needed and extend your service if a flight is canceled or any other unforeseen circumstance pops up.

Even with the professional sitter, there are several variables to consider. Are they insured? Is it a full-time staff or one-person operation? Is it the same person with my pet each visit? Are they members of professional associations and volunteer clubs? How frequently do they update me on my pet? Can I see who’s entering my home on their website and do they do background checks?

These are a few of the many questions you’ll want to ask prior to hiring a professional sitter. It’s your home, your pet, and you want to ensure both are safe and sound at all times!

ADDITIONAL FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT PET SITTING COSTS IN PLANO:

• If your trip is during a holiday/weekend, fees might be higher
• What type of pet or how many (many charge a per pet fee)
• If your pet is a puppy/kitten
• If your pet needs medication a fee might be charged
• Mileage surcharges in some regions
• The city/locality (affluent areas may cost more)

WHAT DOES VIP PET SERVICES CHARGE FOR PET SITTING VISITS?

At VIP Pet Services, we offer a variety of services that can be customized to meet your needs. We are a professional service-oriented company that prides itself on being responsive, reliable and caring. And, we have more than 20 years of industry experience to show for it.

Although our rates are above average, based on our research, our pet care is far superior than that of average companies. We’re happy to offer a customized quote, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. We go above and beyond to make sure our clients feel safe and secure with their pet’s care.

We also believe in being transparent with our pricing at all times.  That’s why you can view pet sitting costs in Plano right on our website.  And, be sure to give us a call, if we can answer any further questions. Don’t be surprised when we answer our phone! While pet sitting costs in Plano may not be straightforward, we’re here to help you find the best option for you and your pets.

We understand problems can arise when hiring a pet sitter in Plano. After all, it can be a challenging task. How do you know if your pet and your home are in good hands? Working with a professional, reliable pet sitter can give you total peace of mind while you’re away, but when problems develop with pet sitter, it can be very distressing for you and your pet.

We have all heard the different -yet similar- horror stories before…A poor pet dies because her reckless pet sitter fails to administer medication. A dog walker negligently leaves six dogs to die in the back of his truck.

When you are surrounded by so much uncertainty, it is pretty easy to fall prey to the fear of making the wrong decision, leaving you paralyzed and unable to act.

Here are three main problems you might encounter when you are looking to hire a pet sitter in Plano, and what we believe is the best way to solve these issues.

-Problem #1 with Plano Pet Sitters: There are too many choices!

You can check this one out for yourself. Do a quick Google search using the words “Plano pet sitters”. The list is endless!

When you are living in a large suburban city like Plano, you are bound to live within a huge percentage of pet owners. And that’s not bad, it’s great that people choose to live with a pet! But, the problem lies in long work hours and holidays. That’s when your pet might end up alone for extended periods of time. Lots of people feel guilty about this and look to a pet sitter to remedy it.

That’s how the pet sitting industry was born. The problem with this scenario is that everybody feels like they can work as pet sitters. And it’s not for everybody!

You will find a lot of pet lovers trying to break into the pet sitting industry. It can get confusing to make the right choice. How can you tell who is a trained professional and who is a hobbyist? Is it possible to ensure a quality service for the pet that you love?

-Solutions:

• If you do a Google search for pet sitting in Plano, you might want to narrow the search down to your neighborhood. This will make it easier to pick the right one and most convenient as well.
• After you think you’ve found the right one, be sure and do some research. Look for online reviews, read their website, find out why they started their business and how they did it.
• Use social media! Join Facebook groups or use Nextdoor to get recommendations from people who have used pet sitting services before. But remember, sometimes you will get someone related to a pet sitting business or a rival business trying to slander the competition. Take everything you hear with a grain of salt.
• By going through this process, you will easily be able to compile a list of five or ten places that seem trustworthy. So, get in touch with them! How they respond is always very telling about how they run their business and treat the pets.

-Problem #2 with Plano Pet Sitters: There are no rules or regulations

If you decide to hire a pet sitter, you are going to give a lot of vital information to a total stranger. Your contact information, your work or holiday schedules, your home address, and even your house keys! It is completely normal to worry about this scenario.

It is always wrong to assume bad things. But how do you tell if a total stranger isn’t a criminal or has hidden intentions when dealing with your pet? You can’t tell if someone will use your house to throw a party when you are away. Or if they are careless and leave your door open when the pet sitter leaves. If they don’t care enough to close the doors, neither will they care to look for your pet if it runs away!

Pet sitting is completely unregulated in Plano. That means anyone can quickly build a website, maybe print some business cards and call themselves a pet sitter.

It’s up to each pet sitting business to set their own standard. At least that will be the case until Plano decides to set rules and regulations as most industries have.

That means it’s up to you and you alone -the pet owner- to ensure you are choosing the right pet sitting business to keep your house and pet safe.

Remember: Anyone can set up a pet sitting business overnight. That doesn’t make them the right choice. Or even qualified.

-Solutions:

You are going to have to ask questions to the potential pet sitter. Don’t be afraid to ask. This is for your house and pet safety. It is worth the trouble. A good pet sitting business will have no problem showing their documentation and any proof you may need. They will be happy to do so! Here are a couple of questions you might want to ask:

• Do you have insurance? What does it cover?
• What steps do you take to make sure my keys are safe? What happens if you lose them?
• How can I know you will keep my personal information safe? (Home address, work schedule, alarm code, etc.)
• Do you do background checks on your sitters? (To check for criminal records)
• What emergency plans do you have? What happens if my pet is lost or injured? What happens if there is something wrong with my house? (A fire, a robbery, etc.)
• Is there a backup plan in place if the pet sitter doesn’t show up?
• Are the sitters carrying a first aid kid for pets when they perform their visits?

-Problem #3 with Plano Pet Sitters: There are no guarantees of availability.

As I have told you, there are more pet owners in Plano than we can count. Which means pet sitters have no trouble getting new clients. Especially during holiday seasons. If you are looking for a high-quality pet sitter, they will be fully booked ridiculously fast.

-Solutions:

Make booking a pet sitter part of your holiday arrangements. Don’t wait until you are finished packing to do it! Once you have the tickets, book the right pet sitter for your little friend.

• Bear in mind high-quality pet sitters might take a while to process new clients’ information. They may even have to arrange a consultation before they take your pet.
• It’s always a great idea to look for a pet sitter even if you are not going to travel. That way, when you have to leave your house for a holiday, you won’t have to go through this process because you have done it already.
• If you ask your neighbor to take care of your pet during the holiday seasons, he might cancel on short notice. Avoid this terrible emergency scenario with a good pet sitting business who has backup plans for any emergency.

We hope we have raised good points for you to consider if you are looking for the right pet sitter. As the owner of VIP Pet Services with over 18 years’ worth of experience in the pet sitting business right here in Plano, my goal is to be your trusted source for all things pets.

We’re Here to Help!

If you are looking for a pet sitter and you feel overwhelmed by this confusing process, feel free to contact us via e-mail or phone. Learn more about our pet sitting and dog walking services in Plano by clicking here. Even if you are outside of our service area, we find joy in helping people with one of the most important things in their life, their pets. Please, if you need help, do not hesitate to call! We are here for you if you need us.

“How much does pet sitting cost in Plano?” If you’re a Plano pet owner who is planning to travel soon, you may be asking this very question, Well, you are not alone, because we get asked this question a lot. We all want the best care for our pets, but cost does play a role in making that choice. We get this! The price and different options can be confusing, especially with technology and so many service providers popping up. Therefore, we’re here to help break it down.

Our price point research is based on the most common service we offer, in-home visits. Prices are based upon how much time is spent in the home. There are other services, including live-in care (staying with your pet 24/7) or overnight care. Either of these services will increase the prices we’ve included below. We’ll begin with the cheapest and move up.

Free Pet Sitting: It’s not All it’s Cracked up to be

Why pay for a pet sitter when you have family and friends who love Fido as much as you do, who will do it for free? But free isn’t always what you’d hope for, in terms of the best all-around care. Some ways to get free pet care include:

• Relatives in the local area
• Friends who are willing to feed your dog
• A local barter system (service for service)
• Asking your neighbor’s child to walk and feed your pet

Trustedhousesitters.com is another option. With this “barter” system, you get free pet care, in return for letting the sitter stay at your home, rent free. But, do you really know who’s staying in your home while you’re away? That’s a factor you’ll have to weigh if you consider this free pet sitting option.

With free pet sitting, some additional factors or variables to weigh are:

1. Level of commitment; is it a full-time job, is the sitter going to come to your home when they say they will?
2. What if something happens, is there a backup plan in place to ensure your dog goes out for a walk and has food and water?
3. With strangers, are they trustworthy? Did you do proper background checks to know who’s coming into your home?
4. With family and friends can you really hold them to the highest standard? (It’s free, you have to give them a break, right?)

Free is great. But, it’s not always the best option. There’s no guarantee that your dog or cat has food and water all day. Nor is there a guarantee something won’t “come up” last minute, where your family member can’t come to the house. What do you do then? This is the primary reason people opt to pay for pet sitters. Hiring a person/company who is dedicated to pet care because it’s their regular job (full time or part-time), can provide some peace of mind.

App based/Technology Companies

App-based technology companies are fairly new to the industry and are an option to consider when reviewing the cost of pet sitting in Plano. Typically, their prices range from $15 to $25 per visit. Sites like Rover, Wag, and Care.com now take online bookings for pet sitting and dog walking. Basically, you visit the site, choose a time slot, and pay the fee. You can compare sitters before choosing one. They do offer insurance in case something goes wrong. These sitters are usually people doing side gigs, like college students.

When using these app-based sitter services, you should still consider:

• If the sitter is a full-time sitter, or doing a “side hustle”, as this will indicate their level of commitment to the job
• If the sitter is a pet lover, volunteers, etc
• What is covered through the insurance the app-based companies offer
• If there are emergency services offered
• The frequency at which the company/sitter will update you on your pet
• Dishonesty bonding (what if the sitter steals your possessions, are you covered?)

Basically, you’ll have to do your research. You still don’t know who’s coming into your home and what they guarantee, so find out before utilizing this mid-range sitter service.

Professional Pet Sitter

The range for a professional sitter is typically $20 to $48 per visit. Professional pet sitting companies charge more for several reasons. For most, this is their full-time job, their livelihood. And, there are expenses that go along with running a business. A professional company will offer GPS tracking of your pet, visit notifications, report cards with photo updates so you know how they’re doing when you’re away, and other notifications about their care. A reputable pet sitting business will have a system in place to ensure no pet is ever forgotten and backup plans for extreme weather, medical emergencies or any unexpected occurrences. They have open communication, allowing you to check in when needed and extend your service if a flight is canceled or any other unforeseen circumstance pops up.

Even with the professional sitter, there are several variables to consider. Are they insured and bonded? Is it a full-time staff or one-person operation? And, if there’s a staff, is it the same person with my pet each visit? Are they members of professional associations and volunteer clubs? How frequently do they update me on my pet? Can I see who’s entering my home on their website and do they do background checks?

These are a few of the many questions you’ll want to ask prior to hiring a professional sitter. It’s your home, your pet, and you want to ensure both are safe and sound at all times!

Additional Factors that may Drive Up/Down Costs:

• If your trip is during a holiday/weekend, fees might be higher
• What type of pet or how many (many charge a per pet fee)
• If your pet is a puppy/kitten
• If your pet needs medication a fee might be charged
• Mileage surcharges in some regions
• The city/locality (affluent areas may cost more)

What does VIP Pet Services charge for pet sitting visits?

At VIP Pet Services, we offer a variety of services that can be customized to meet your needs. We are a professional service-oriented company that prides itself on being responsive, reliable and caring. And, we have more than 18 years of industry experience to show for it.

Although our rates are above average, based on our research, our pet care is far superior than that of average companies. We’re happy to offer a customized quote, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. We go above and beyond to make sure our clients feel safe and secure with their pet’s care. For a complete breakdown of our fees or to read more about our services, click here. And, be sure to give us a call, if we can answer any further questions. Don’t be surprised when we answer our phone!

Hopefully we’ve given you enough information to help you understand the differences, even though there’s no clear-cut pricing scheme for pet sitters in Plano TX. There are several options out there, we know you’ll go with the best choice for you and your pets. If you’d like to learn more about our pet sitting services in Plano, click here or give us a call. We’d love to care for your pets! if we can help!