What are the benefits to a dog kennel vs. a personal dog sitter?
Most owners prefer having a personal sitter care for their dog. The dog can remain in his/her own environment without the stress of being around a large number of barking dogs. Staying home also means no exposure to contagious diseases such as Kennel Cough, or flea infestation. Once you’ve developed a relationship with a personal sitter, it’s much easier to call on them to care for your dog while you’re away. This means no drop-offs, pick-ups and the kennel. You can also be more flexible in when you can leave and return when a sitter is caring for your dog.
As far as the benefits of a kennel vs. a personal sitter, there’s less work involved in arranging care for the first time. With a sitter, you’ll want to make sure the person is trustworthy and insured. It may be more expensive to hire a personal sitter. You’ll have to meet with them and some owners just aren’t comfortable allowing a "stranger" into their home while they’re gone.
A personal dog sitter would be your best option (JMHO). Maltese are very sensivie little dogs and your dog would get to stay in his own home which is a lot less stressful. Make sure your dog has a light on all the time and a radio or TV if the person isn’t going to be there full time. There are things to consider when hiring a pet sitter. First, get references. Second, make sure this person is bonded. After all, he or she will have access to everything in your home. The last thing you need is to come home to a house that has been stripped! The good pet sitters will be able to provide all the proof you need of their honesty and reputation and the people they hire will be bonded. You should interview the pet sitter(s) as well. Ask about experience with toy breeds and get a good feeling for the person who will be caring for your dog. All pet sitters are not created equal. You should also ask how long they will stay at your home. Some just stop in and take the dog for a walk, check the foo
