What I Look for in Dog Care When I Travel – Insights from a Pet Sitter and Dog Mom

What I Look for in Dog Care When I Travel – As a Dog Mom and Pet Sitting Business Owner

Our pet's comfort while we travel makes our own experience worthwhile.

This week I returned from an incredible two-week trip through Europe. It was full of adventure, connection, and relaxation—but like any devoted dog parent, leaving my pups behind wasn’t easy. As the owner of Burbank Pet Sitting and someone who entrusts others with the care of my own dogs while I travel, I’ve been reflecting a lot on what really matters when it comes to pet care.

This trip gave me fresh perspective—not only as a client of pet care services, but as someone who strives to provide the best possible experience for my own clients. Here’s what I personally look for when I leave my dogs in someone else’s care—and how that shapes the services I offer at Burbank Pet Sitting.

1. Trust Is Everything

When I hand over my dogs to someone, I need to know they’re in capable, loving hands. That trust isn’t built overnight. For my own dogs, I look for a sitter with experience, solid references, and a calm confidence that puts me at ease. Certifications in Pet First Aid & CPR matter to me—because in the rare event something does go wrong, I want someone who’s prepared.

At Burbank Pet Sitting, I’ve made it my mission to be that trusted person for my clients. With over 22 years of experience and Pet CPR & First Aid certification, I don’t just care for pets—I protect them like they’re my own.

2. Communication, Communication, Communication

While traveling, getting regular updates—photos, messages, or little notes—brought me real peace of mind. I didn’t just want to know my dogs were alive and fed; I wanted to know they were happy, getting snuggles, going for walks, and keeping their routines.

That’s why I prioritize proactive, consistent communication with my clients. Whether I’m doing drop-in visits, overnight stays, or boarding, I always check in with photo updates and little insights into how your pet is doing—because I know how it feels to be far away and wondering.

3. Consistency in Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and nothing makes me feel more secure than knowing my dogs are getting their meals, walks, and rest at the usual times. When routines are maintained, stress is reduced, and that’s exactly what I want for my pups.

An actual photo check-in I received while away!

At Burbank Pet Sitting, I make it a point to learn each pet’s schedule and stick to it. Whether it’s a special bedtime ritual, a quirky food routine, or a favorite walking path, I follow your instructions to a T—just like I expect others to do for my own dogs.

4. Every Dog Is Unique—And Mine Definitely Are

Like a lot of dogs, mine have their own little quirks. One’s a little anxious, another can be picky with food, and they both have specific ways they like to be approached, fed, or comforted. These aren’t just cute personality traits—they’re important pieces of information that affect their safety and well-being.

That’s why I wouldn’t dream of leaving them with someone who doesn’t truly know dogs. I need a professional sitter who understands canine behavior, knows how to read body language, and takes the time to learn the nuances of my pets.

This is exactly the level of care I strive to provide at Burbank Pet Sitting. I don’t just walk in and wing it. I build relationships with the animals I care for, take detailed notes, and adapt my care to each pet’s individual needs. Your quirky pup? They’re my kind of people.

5. Connection and Comfort

When my dogs are with someone else, I want them to feel safe, seen, and loved. I don’t want them just managed—I want them cared for. That emotional connection matters. It’s not just about knowing how to leash a dog—it’s about knowing how to comfort them when they’re missing their people.

At Burbank Pet Sitting, I treat every dog like they’re part of the family. I offer companionship, belly rubs, and a soothing presence—because that’s what I want for my own pets, too.

6. A True Professional

Even with all the love in the world, professionalism is key. I appreciate sitters who are prompt, organized, reliable, and clear. Travel already comes with enough stress—I don’t want to be chasing down someone for updates or worrying about a missed visit.

That’s why I run Burbank Pet Sitting with clear communication, structured scheduling, and dependable service. I respect your time, your trust, and most importantly—your pet.

Final Thoughts

Being both a pet sitter and a dog owner gives me a unique perspective. I don’t take the responsibility lightly—because I know firsthand how vulnerable it can feel to leave your beloved animals behind. My recent trip reminded me how important it is to deliver not just a service, but a sense of peace to every client.

If you’re planning your next vacation and looking for someone who understands—deeply—what you need when you leave your pet, I’d love to help. At Burbank Pet Sitting, I bring my whole heart to the job. Because I’m not just a professional—I’m one of you.

Let’s keep your pets happy, healthy, and loved—wherever you may roam.

—

Ready to schedule your summer travel pet care? Let’s talk! Visit "Our Services" or text me directly to reserve your dates.