Winter is the perfect time to plan a vacation — families are celebrating the holidays together, kids are home from school, and it’s cold here on Long Island. Long Island winters can be beautiful, but sometimes you just need to escape to a warmer climate for a while.

Of course, there are suitcases to pack and itineraries to plan. But if you own an exotic pet, planning a vacation can be even more complicated. Pets like birds, reptiles, fish, and small mammals need special, individualized care. The average person is probably not familiar with your exotic pet’s behavior and needs. That’s why you can’t trust just anyone to take care of them while you’re away. At Dan’s Pet Care, we provide high-quality, professional care for all pets — from dogs to parrots, from cats to snakes, and everything in between. Keep reading to learn more about finding the right sitter for your exotic pet during your winter travels.

Why is it so hard to find an exotic pet sitter?

Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet can be challenging, and finding a good pet sitter is no different. Many exotic pet owners find that qualified pet sitters are in short supply. Since many professionals are more familiar with dogs and cats, it can be hard to find someone willing to take on the challenge of a unique pet.

In addition, some pet sitters tend to avoid certain species based on personal preference. You may find a sitter who loves birds, but refuses to care for reptiles. Or you may find someone who’s willing to handle live insects, but doesn’t like to be around ferrets.

At Dan’s Pet Care, you’ll find the professionalism and training that you and your pet deserve. We love all animals — any breed and any species. We’re also not intimidated by your pet’s unique needs — we love a good challenge.

How to help your exotic pet sitter prepare

Before you leave for vacation, make sure to provide all the information your sitter needs. They’ll need to know who to contact in an emergency and where to take your pet for emergency medical care. They’ll also need details about your pet’s diet, personality and quirks, and daily routine. If there’s a specific temperature your pet needs, or a specific way your pet likes to be handled, your sitter will benefit from having those details.

A good exotic pet sitter knows how to communicate

Whether you own a tarantula, a guinea pig, or a parakeet. leaving your pet behind during a holiday vacation isn’t easy. You need a pet sitter who’ll be proactive about communication. Wondering about your pet’s mood, appetite, or behavior? We’ll fill you in on everything you need to know, so you can have the peace of mind to really enjoy your getaway.

The best exotic pet sitters are trustworthy

Your pet is a member of your family. Before you get on your plane for Bermuda, board your cruise ship, or start the drive to grandma’s house, you need to know that they’re in good hands. At Dan’s Pet Care, our team of specialists undergo intensive training. They’re also bonded and insured, and each team member undergoes a thorough background check. We also verify all visits with GPS technology, so you’ll never have to wonder.

Your pet deserves the excellent care that comes with experience

If you own an exotic pet, it’s important to be extra choosy about who you entrust to care for them. Inexperienced sitters are often unsure how to read and interpret exotic pets’ behavior — or they may not notice the warning signs when something goes wrong. Amateur pet sitters are also prone to crossing boundaries when they care for exotic pets. If your pet doesn’t like to be cuddled or touched, or they’re easily frightened, you need a pet sitter who respects their needs. Otherwise, your pet, your sitter, or both of them could end up at risk.

On the other hand, some exotic pets need lots of personal interaction and affection in order to thrive. For instance, birds in the parrot family often experience separation anxiety and boredom when their owners are away. They need the mental stimulation and social interaction that an experienced sitter can provide.

At Dan’s Pet Care, we’ve cared for over 3,300 animals over the years. With 47 combined years of pet care experience, our team is ready to provide the personalized care your pet needs.

Get started with Dan’s Pet Care today!

The holiday season can be hectic. With Dan’s Pet Care, getting high-quality care for your exotic pet while you’re on vacation is easy. Contact us today to get started. Now you can finally cross “find an exotic pet sitter” off your to-do list!